Since February, Cleveland Cavaliers sharpshooter J.R. Smith and his family have been dealing with the premature birth of their daughter, Dakota. Just last week, little Dakota was released from the NICU ward at Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital.

Smith’s eldest daughter, Demi, is taking a protective role when it comes to her baby sister. After today’s practice session at Cleveland Clinic Courts, Smith shared a picture of Demi’s message to anyone asking to hold Dakota.

The things that go on while I'm at practice!! I love it!!!! Tell em #DemiB

A post shared by JR Smith (@teamswish) on

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As a result of their gentleman’s sweep over the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals (4-1), the Cavaliers have a few days to prepare themselves before facing the Golden State Warriors in the championship round for a third consecutive season. Game 1 of the NBA Finals is set for June 1st at 9:00 p.m. on TNT. Maybe dad can spend some quality time with his family before then.