Bill Walton, a two-time NBA champion, Hall of Fame player, and beloved broadcaster, has passed away at the age of 71. The NBA announced Walton’s passing on Monday after a prolonged battle with cancer.
A Legendary Career
Walton, a 6-foot-11 center known for his grace and skill, rose to stardom at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), under legendary coach John Wooden. He won NCAA championships in 1972 and 1973, and his performance in the 1973 NCAA title game against Memphis, where he shot an incredible 21-for-22 from the field, remains one of the greatest in college basketball history.
In the NBA, Walton led the Portland Trail Blazers to a championship in 1977 and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player the following year. Despite his professional career being hampered by chronic foot injuries, Walton left a significant impact on the game. He played 468 games with Portland, San Diego, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Boston Celtics, averaging 13.3 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.
A Remarkable Broadcaster
After retiring from the NBA, Walton transitioned to broadcasting. He overcame a pronounced stutter to excel in this field, winning an Emmy award and earning a spot as one of the top 50 sports broadcasters of all time by the American Sportscasters Association. His insightful and colorful commentary entertained generations of basketball fans.
Tributes from the Basketball Community
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Bill Walton as “truly one of a kind” and highlighted his all-around skills, which redefined the center position. Walton’s contributions to the game earned him spots on the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.
Magic Johnson paid tribute to Walton, calling him “one of the most skilled centers we’ve ever seen.” Johnson compared Walton’s abilities to those of current NBA star Nikola Jokic, noting Walton’s smart play and incredible passing.
Julius “Dr. J” Erving also honored Bill Walton, reflecting on the joy Walton brought to life and the blessing it was to compete against and work with him.
A Zest for Life
Walton’s enthusiasm for life was evident both on and off the court. Silver remembered him as always upbeat, smiling, and eager to share his wisdom and warmth at league events. Walton’s larger-than-life personality and contributions to basketball have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Fans and players alike will cherish Bill Walton’s legacy as a player, broadcaster, and ambassador for basketball. His passing is a significant loss to the basketball community, but his impact on the game and those who knew him will endure.
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