Bill Walton, two-time NBA champion, member of the Basketball Hall of Fame and beloved commentator, passed away on Monday (May 27) at the age of 71 after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed the Hall of Fame center’s death in a statement mourning the legendary player, noting he was surrounded by his family when he passed.
Adam Silver’s statement after Bill Walton passing
“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind. As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the centre position,” Adam Silver said in a statement after Walton’s passing.
While recalling Walton’s career, Silver said he “translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colourful commentary which entertained generations of basketball fans… But what I will remember most about him was his zest for life. He was a regular presence at league events, always upbeat, smiling ear to ear and looking to share his wisdom and warmth.”
Bill Walton’s professional career
6 foot 11 Walton first gained prominence at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Under the tutelage of Coach John Wooden, he won back-to-back National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championships in 1972 and 1973.
His professional career saw him rise to stardom with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he spearheaded the team to a championship in the 1976-77 season. He also went on to gain the Most Valuable Player award the year after.
May 6, 1977: Portland’s Bill Walton fakes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and hits a jumper during Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals.
Walton had 22 PTS/13 REB/6 AST and Maurice Lucas scored 28 PTS in the Trail Blazers’ 121-109 win. Abdul-Jabbar had 30 PTS/10 REB/5 AST for the Lakers. pic.twitter.com/Fi0Zyt3h6n
— NBA Cobwebs (@NBACobwebs) May 6, 2024
However, Walton’s career was marred by injuries. His fragile foot-bones caused him to miss three out of four seasons while with the San Diego Clippers. However, he made a triumphant return as a bench player for the Boston Celtics. It was then that he helped Boston Celtics secure the NBA championship in 1985-86.
Walton’s impact extended beyond his playing days. He transitioned into broadcasting where his philosophical commentary became his trademark. He was often seen seamlessly weaving in musings.
Walton’s love for the ‘Grateful Dead’ also became part of his persona and he was frequently seen in tie-dye shirts and referencing the band during his broadcasts.
People who expressed their sorrow on Bill Walton’s death
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, a former rival expressed his sorrow and reflected on Walton’s character saying, “On the court, Bill was a fierce player, but off the court he wasn’t happy unless he did everything he could to make everyone around him happy. He was the best of us.”
“Bill Walton is synonymous with Southern California basketball: a San Diego native, a UCLA phenom, a Clipper icon,” the Los Angeles Clippers said in a statement following his death. “He defined the game as a player, a broadcaster and an ambassador, spreading joy for generations. Wherever he went, whatever he did, Big Red stood above the crowd.”
Todd Gloria also released a statement earlier today, sending condolences to Walton’s family. “San Diego mourns the loss of the legendary Bill Walton today,” he said. “He was a towering figure in basketball and broadcasting as well as a civic icon who loved his hometown. Our city’s thoughts are with his wife, Lori, and the entire Walton family. Godspeed, Bill.”
“Rest in Peace to the generous and kind Bill Walton, a cherished friend, mentor and supporter,” political newcomer Larry Turner said in a statement. “Bill was the kind of man who would support his friends with everything in his heart. A legend, but so humble. My thoughts are with Lori and the rest of Bill’s wonderful family today.”
“(Bill) Walton has left an incredible mark on San Diego by being a passionate force for boundless generosity and unwavering determination to inspire those around him. Our Y team is grateful to have had his light shined upon us,” Todd Tibbits, YMCA of San Diego County CEO, said in a statement.
Who was with Bill Walton on his final time?
Walton is survived by his wife, Lori, and his four sons: Adam, Nate, Luke and Chris during his final moments. All four of his sons, who he had with his previous wife, played college basketball, but Luke later went on to play and coach for the Los Angeles Lakers.
His brother Bruce, who passed away in 2019, also left a legacy in sports. Bruce and Bill made the first siblings to play in both NFL and NBA championship games.
Bill Walton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993, cementing his place in basketball history.
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