Craig Sager Memorial Photos And Quotes: Pictures Released From NBA Reporter's Celebration In Georgia

The life of Craig Sager was celebrated during a memorial service Tuesday for the famed NBA sideline reporter who died last week after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 65. The service was held at the Mount Bethel United Methodist Church in Marietta, Georgia.

While details surrounding the event were scarce, including who was in attendance, pictures began to surface on social media shortly after the service began at 11 .m. EST. Some familiar faces included Sager's longtime co-worker and NBA anchor Ernie Johnson, San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popowich and singer Yolanda Adams, who performed during the memorial.

One of the more sentimental moments came when Johnson recited a poem as part of Sager's eulogy, according to Bleacher Report. Johnson wore a pair of brightly colored sneakers to pay homage to Sager's flamboyant fashion choices while saying the poem.

"You knew then and there, with that move which took guts. That great things awaited, no ifs, ands or buts," Johnson said in part before getting a bit more personal: "I really, truly do believe that no man enjoyed life more. That laugh, that smile, that joy we saw when he walked in the door."

Johnson finished on a positive note: "So amid the tears and all the memories we cherish now, we say farewell to our friend Sages, and make this humble vow. There’s no way to gauge the days we have and no way to tell how long, But know this, Craig, we’ll do our best to live them Sager strong."

Adams sang a song called "Never Give Up" in front of what appeared to be a packed church that included a large photo of Sager on the stage.

The pastor who presided over the service could be seen wearing a floral patterned suit jacket with a purple shirt and tie that was clearly a nod to Sager's sense of style, likely bringing an element of levity to the otherwise sad occasion.

That was apparently one of Sager's dying wishes — for people to dress for his funeral as he would have dressed in life, according to a former professional basketball player who worked as a studio analyst for TNT with Sager.

"He told us to dress loudly," Kenny Smith told TMZ.

The entire NBA community has been mourning Sager's death since it was announced Thursday. That same night NBA franchise the Golden State Warriors held a tribute prior to the start of its game against the New York Knicks. Players on the Warriors wore colorful warmup shirts and Warriors head coach Steve Kerr wore an even more colorful necktie.

"But while we considered a moment of silence, we thought it would be more appropriate, given the way Craig lived his life and the joy that he brought to so many people, to have a moment of joy instead," Kerr told the audience in attendance. "So I'd like all of you to join me in an applause for a great man and a life well-lived. Thank you."