Karl-Anthony Towns’ basketball success is deeply rooted in the support and influence of his family, particularly his father, Karl Towns Sr. A former Monmouth University player and New Jersey high school basketball coach, Towns Sr. was involved in his son’s development both on and off the court. His coaching career included leading Piscataway Tech, where Karl-Anthony studied, and later St. Joseph High School, his son’s alma mater, where he faced challenges during a difficult 6–16 season before stepping away from coaching.
Even though his time as a coach ended, Towns Sr.’s role as a presence in key moments remained steadfast. After Karl-Anthony’s mother passed in 2021, Towns Sr. was seen courtside at Barclays Center, providing unwavering support. Following his own recovery from COVID-19, he founded the KAT Foundation and linked with organizations like the United Negro College Fund to expand educational opportunities for Black students, underscoring his commitment to giving back beyond the basketball world.
The Lasting Influence of Jacqueline Cruz on Karl-Anthony Towns
Jacqueline Cruz, Karl-Anthony’s mother, was a vibrant and devoted figure in his life. Proud of her Dominican roots, she instilled that cultural pride in her son, shaping his identity both personally and as a player representing the Dominican Republic internationally. Cruz was present at every crucial moment, from draft nights to important games and celebrations.
In 2020, both Jacqueline and Karl Towns Sr. contracted COVID-19, but her condition deteriorated rapidly, and she passed away on April 13 at age 58. Her death profoundly affected Karl-Anthony, challenging him emotionally and prompting moments when he considered stepping away from basketball. However, he channeled his grief into determination, honoring her memory through his play.
On Dominican Mother’s Day in May 2025, Towns delivered a heartfelt performance against the Indiana Pacers during the Eastern Conference Finals, scoring 20 of his 24 points and securing 15 rebounds. After the game, he made history by acknowledging Dominican Mother’s Day on live national television:
“Shoutout to Dominicans, man, on Dominican Mother’s Day,
he said during his TNT interview.
Shoutout to my mom.”
—Karl-Anthony Towns
He has openly expressed the significance of his heritage, sharing with Our Esquina in November,
“It’s my culture. It’s how I grew up,
followed by,
I really just grew in the culture.”
—Karl-Anthony Towns
Though Jacqueline Cruz is no longer alive, her influence endures in Towns’ voice, his jersey, and every game he plays, reflecting the profound roots she established.
The Role of Family and Heritage in Shaping Towns’ Path with the Knicks
The strength Karl-Anthony Towns draws from his family and Dominican heritage has been key to his resilience and growth with the New York Knicks. Facing personal loss and public scrutiny, he continues to honor his parents’ legacy by embracing his culture and using his platform to uplift others. His father’s commitment to education and community impact, combined with his mother’s cultural pride, have created a foundation that enables Towns to thrive in high-pressure moments.
As Towns progresses in his NBA career, his family’s story reminds fans and observers that his journey is not only about athletic achievements but also about steadfast determination, cultural identity, and the support system that fuels his enduring success.