Stan Love, a former professional basketball player and brother of Beach Boys singer Mike Love, has died at the age of 76. He was also known for his role as a caretaker and bodyguard for Brian Wilson, the band’s gifted but troubled leader.
His passing was shared on social media by his son, Kevin Love, a five-time NBA All-Star currently with the Miami Heat. While the announcement did not specify the date, cause, or place of death, it noted that Stan had suffered a long illness and wished to pass away at home. He was known to reside in Lake Oswego, Oregon.
Standing 6-foot-9, Stan Love was a standout forward at the University of Oregon before being selected ninth overall in the 1971 NBA draft by the Baltimore Bullets, now the Washington Wizards. Over four seasons, he played for the Bullets, the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA, and the San Antonio Spurs during their ABA days, averaging 6.6 points and 3.9 rebounds per game in limited minutes.
Following his basketball career, Love became closely involved with Brian Wilson during the 1970s and 1980s, a period marked by Wilson’s struggles with mental health and substance abuse. Love acted as his caretaker and companion throughout these challenging years.
He recounted his experiences touring with the Beach Boys for around five years as a tumultuous and chaotic time, highlighting the complexities of supporting a musical genius grappling with personal difficulties.
