Photo Credit: Ron Chenoy
Bill Walton, a towering figure in basketball history, passed away at 71 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His multifaceted career spanned from his illustrious college days at UCLA to his impactful time in the NBA, and later as a vibrant broadcaster.
Walton's legacy began at UCLA, where he led the Bruins to two national championships and was a three-time national player of the year under coach John Wooden. His performance in the 1973 NCAA title game, where he scored 44 points on 21-of-22 shooting, remains legendary. "It's hard to imagine a season in Pauley Pavilion without him," said current UCLA coach Mick Cronin, highlighting Walton's enduring influence on the program.
“I am sad today hearing that my comrade and one of the sports world’s most beloved champions and characters has passed. Bill Walton enjoyed life in every way. To compete against him and to work with him was a blessing in my life.” a fellow Hall of Famer,Julius Erving, wrote.
Drafted first overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 1974, Walton quickly made his mark in the NBA. He led Portland to their first and only championship in 1977 and was named the league's MVP in the 1977-78 season. Chronic foot injuries limited his career to 468 games, but he left an indelible mark. "Bill Walton was a true legend," the Trail Blazers said in a statement. Walton won his second NBA championship with the Boston Celtics in 1986, where he was admired by teammates.
Larry Bird said, “I love him as a friend and as a teammate. It was a thrill for me to play with my childhood idol and together we earned an NBA championship in 1986. He is one of the greatest ever to play the game. I am sure that all of my teammates are as grateful as I am that we were able to know Bill. He was such a joy to know and he will be sorely missed.”
Despite his larger-than-life presence, Walton remained grounded in his values, advocating for issues like homelessness in his native San Diego. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver summarized Walton's spirit, saying, "He was truly one of a kind.”
