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NBA legend and Hall of Famer Bill Walton has died at the age of 71 after a long battle with cancer, the league announced on Monday.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement:
“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 50th 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.
As a cherished member of the NBA family for 50 years, Bill will be deeply missed by all those who came to know and love him. My heartfelt condolences to Bill’s wife, Lori; his sons, Adam, Nate, Luke and Chris; and his many friends and colleagues.”
Walton first made his mark as a high school star in California before becoming a standout at UCLA under coach John Wooden. He won the Naismith Award three times and led UCLA to back-to-back national championships in 1972 and 1973, with his 44-point performance in the 1973 championship game still a record.
UCLA's Director of Athletics, Martin Jarmond, expressed sorrow over Walton's passing, saying, "Bill represented many of the ideals we hold dear at UCLA. He loved being back on campus, calling games, and supporting our teams. We extend our deepest sympathy to his family and find comfort in knowing that Bill lived each day to the fullest."
Walton was the No. 1 overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 1974 NBA Draft. Although injuries limited his early career, he led the Blazers to their only championship in 1977 and earned Finals MVP honors. He won the league MVP the following season despite missing significant time due to injury.
Persistent foot problems plagued Walton's career, leading to limited play with the San Diego (later Los Angeles) Clippers. A move to the Boston Celtics rejuvenated his career, where he won Sixth Man of the Year and helped the team win the 1986 championship, cementing that team as one of the best in NBA history.
Walton retired in 1988 after further injuries. His number was retired by the Trail Blazers in 1989, and he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993. He was also honored on the NBA's 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.
After retiring from playing, Walton enjoyed a successful broadcasting career with CBS, NBC, ESPN, and the Los Angeles Clippers, known for his colorful commentary. Despite stepping away for a time due to back problems, he returned to broadcasting and continued to share his love for the game until his passing.
⭐REST IN PEACE MR. BILL WALTON⭐
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