Source: MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images / Getty / Bill Walton
The sports world lost a giant on Monday with the passing of Bill Walton, two-time NBA champion, basketball Hall of Famer and all-around great man.
Through commissioner Adam Silver, the NBA announced the death of the Emmy-winning sports broadcaster and former UCLA player on Monday.
In a statement, Silver said: “Bill Walton was truly one of a kind. Bill then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love of the game into broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colorful commentary that entertained generations of basketball fans.”
Silver continued, “What I will remember most about him was his zest for life. He was a regular at league events – always upbeat, smiling from ear to ear and eager to share his wisdom and warmth. I treasured our close friendship, envied his boundless energy, and admired the time he spent with each person he met.
“As a beloved member of the NBA family for 50 years, Bill will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.”
The 71-year-old former professional hooper died of cancer on Monday in the presence of his loved ones, his family said in a statement.
Bill Walton's long list of accomplishments
Walton had an outstanding career, winning two national titles with the UCLA Bruins before winning two NBA championships.
His NBA career was short-lived due to nagging foot injuries, playing 468 games with the Portland Trail Blazers, LA (and formerly San Diego) Clippers and Boston Celtics, averaging a double-double of 13.3 points and 10, 5 rebounds.
Walton was the NBA MVP in the 1977-78 season, earning a spot on the league's 50th and 75th anniversary teams.
Walton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.
He transitioned seamlessly into the broadcast booth, where the 6'11 giant became one of the most recognizable voices in sports thanks to his famous catchphrase, “Get down, big man.”
The American Sportscasters Association ranked him among the top 50 sportscasters of 2009.
NBA Honors Walton on Social Media
Following the sad news, former players and friends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Larry Birdand Julius “Dr.J” Erving paid tribute to Waltton on X, formerly Twitter.
“I am saddened to hear today that my partner and one of the most beloved champions and characters in the world of sport has passed away. Bill Walton enjoyed life in every way. Racing against him and working with him has been a blessing in my life. Sorry for your loss Walton family. We will miss him too” Erving wrote in H.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wrote on X, “Today I had to say goodbye to a great friend who will always be missed.”
Walton is survived by his wife Lori and sons Adam, Chris, Nate and Luke, who played ten seasons in the NBA before becoming a major league coach.
You can see more reactions to his death in the gallery below.
