Bill Walton was a legend of the game, whose passing earlier today at age 71 has sent waves through the NBA community. The beloved former MVP and commentator was a staple of the NBA and his passing has led to tributes from all over the world, including former President of the United States, Barack Obama. Obama shared a tweet honoring Walton and sending condolences to his family.
“Bill Walton was one of the greatest basketball players of all time – a champion at every level and the embodiment of unselfish team play. He was also a wonderful spirit full of curiosity, humor, and kindness. We are poorer for his passing, and Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family.”
Bill Walton was one of the greatest basketball players of all time – a champion at every level and the embodiment of unselfish team play. He was also a wonderful spirit full of curiosity, humor and kindness. We are poorer for his passing, and Michelle and I send our deepest…
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 27, 2024
Walton passed away surrounded by loved ones after a battle with cancer earlier today, leaving a giant hole in the world of basketball. Fans treasured the two-time NBA Champion when he worked as an active commentator and voice on the sport, exuding the kind of love for the game that we hope all our TV analysts would do.
Walton could wax lyrically in the most beautiful way possible if it came to describing even the most boring aspects of the game because his love for the sport would be engaging enough to help millions gain a better understanding of it.
Bill Walton Was Honored By Adam Silver
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued a bittersweet statement in Walton’s honor as well.
“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind. As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the center position. His unique all-around skills made him a dominant force at UCLA and led to an NBA regular-season and Finals MVP, two NBA championships and a spot on the NBA’s 50* and 75th Anniversary Teams. Bill then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colorful 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. I treasured our close friendship, envied his boundless energy and admired the time he took with every person he encountered.”
Walton had an incredible career in the NBA, being selected by the Portland Trail Blazers as the No. 1 selection of the 1974 NBA Draft. He won Rookie of the Year and was instantly regarded as one of the best post-playmakers the game had ever seen. While post-playmaking has become an entirely different concept today, Walton’s passing for a big was extremely rare back then.
He would lead the Portland Trail Blazers to the 1977 NBA Championship, still the only title triumph the franchise has ever seen. As a result, Walton is still regarded as arguably the greatest Trail Blazer to have ever played. He would win another title in 1986, coming off the bench for the Boston Celtics. He was a key contributor that season, winning Sixth Man of the Year.
Walton averaged 13.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game over his 13-year career. Injuries never allowed him to blossom into the best version of himself and cut his career short. Walton missed three full seasons over his career, playing only 10 seasons. Nonetheless, the impact he had on the game in those 10 seasons was remarkable and will be remembered forever.
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