Sounds like I’m following up a gay joke with a gay joke? No, no, this is in fact on a much more serious note. We here at Fulmer’s Belly like LOVE to poke fun on and about all that we love and adore about sports. But today our hearts and prayers are with one of our own.

Billy Smith, the father of Tennessee basketball star Tyler Smith, has died after a long battle with lung cancer, Vols coach Bruce Pearl told CBSSports.com on Thursday.

Tyler, for those who may not know, is a native of Pulaski, TN. Who after a phenomenal freshman year at Iowa transferred to to UT to be closer to his father. In fact, after the NCAA granted Smith a waiver so that he could play this year, the hope was that Smith’s father would be present for UT’s season opening game Nov. 9 at Thompson-Boling Arena against Temple.

“But Tyler can still honor his father,” Pearl said. “He can still carry that memory.” And we will join Tyler in carrying his father’s memory for this season and beyond. God Bless You and Keep You, Tyler Smith. Be strong and courageous and for now hold close to family and friends and know that our thoughts are with you.