‘Love Stone’: Mother places basketballs in yards across the city to honor late son, Thunder fan
By Olivia Hickey
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NICHOLS HILLS, Oklahoma (KOCO) — Basketballs with the message “Love Stone” are appearing on lawns across Nichols Hills as a tribute to a late Oklahoma City Thunder fan.
Kimberly Hiddleston, whose son Stone died last year from a fentanyl overdose, is behind the display. Stone, a passionate Thunder fan, attended many games, including the playoff run that led to the team’s first NBA championship days before his death.
“He was a huge Thunder fan. He went to the playoff games. He went to a lot of games,” Hiddleston said.
Stone grew up in the Nichols Hills home, where he and his family were known for decorating their yard for various holidays.
“He was my oldest son. He grew up in this house and grew up decorating this yard in many different ways. We’re known for decorating for Halloween and all kinds of holidays,” Hiddleston said.
Initially considering stepping away from the tradition, Hiddleston instead chose to channel her grief into action. She purchased and received donated basketballs from across Oklahoma City, placing them on lawns with the words “Love Stone” written across the front.
Her goal is 500 basketballs, though she believes she may surpass it.
“People have said it’s like Christmas morning. They go out there and they see the balls, and it’s bringing a lot of pleasure,” Hiddleston said.
As children play basketball in driveways and neighbors display the balls in their yards, Stone’s memory lives on in the community.
“I just love seeing people smile and look at it. That’s why I’m doing it,” Hiddleston said.
While cheering for another Thunder championship, Hiddleston said the effort is about more than the team’s success. It’s about sharing Stone’s spirit with the community they love.
“There isn’t a doubt in my mind that Stone can see what I’m doing here. I mean, I know that, and it’s empowering. I’m going to do everything possible to support the team so that we have another championship,” Hiddleston said.
As the season comes to a close, Hiddleston plans to continue sharing Stone’s story, hoping it can make a difference in someone’s life.
“People have assumptions that something’s got to be really wrong with someone if they have addiction issues, and let me assure you, that’s not the case. Stone was loved. If love could have saved him, believe me, he’d be here doing this with me right now,” Hiddleston said.
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