The Philadelphia 76ers are facing more than just playoff pressure this week. Head coach Nick Nurse has temporarily stepped away from the team following the unexpected death of his older brother, Steve Nurse.

On Tuesday, May 5, Nurse traveled to Iowa to attend his brother's funeral, leaving the Sixers after their Game 1 loss to the New York Knicks on Monday night. The 58-year-old coach is expected to rejoin the team in New York on Wednesday, May 6, in time for Game 2 of the playoff series, according to ESPN.

Steve Nurse, 62, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 29, in Carroll, Iowa. A married father of two, Steve dedicated 26 years of his life to the University of Northern Iowa, serving as the athletic equipment manager for his alma mater.

"His love of sports was evident in his work, and he found great joy in helping athletes succeed," read his obituary. "That passion reflected his natural ability to connect with others; he had a lifelong gift for making new friends and taking a genuine interest in their lives."

In a touching twist for Sixers fans, Steve was described as an "avid NBA fan" who rooted for his brother's team. "They attended many games in person across the country and rarely missed broadcasts," the obituary noted.

Knicks coach Mike Brown offered condolences ahead of the series, saying, "Life is precious and you don't wish that upon anybody. I'd like to pass along my condolences to him and his family while they're going through these times."

As the Sixers prepare to battle the Knicks in Game 2, the team—and the entire NBA community—will undoubtedly have the Nurse family in their thoughts.