Kofi Inkoom
Bill Walton, former standout player for the Portland Trail Blazers and Boston Celtics and a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame, has died at the age of 71, the league announced today. According to the league’s statement, Walton passed away surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer.
“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in an extensive statement. “As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the center position. … Bill then channeled his infectious enthusiasm and passion for the game into broadcasting, where his insightful and vibrant commentary delighted generations of basketball fans. But what I will remember most about him was his zest for life. He was a regular at league events — always upbeat, grinning from ear to ear, and eager to share his wisdom and warmth.”
Walton played college basketball at UCLA, winning national championships in 1972 and 1973, and earning the national college player of the year award for three consecutive seasons from 1972 to 1974.
He was the first overall pick in the 1974 draft and won championships with the Trail Blazers in 1977 and the Celtics in 1986, also securing an MVP award with Portland in 1978.
Walton was the NBA Finals MVP in 1977 after leading the league in both rebounds and blocked shots per game that season. He was an All-Star and made the All-Defensive First Team in both 1977 and 1978, and he won the Sixth Man of the Year award in 1986.
A series of injuries to his back, knees, ankles, and feet shortened Walton’s career and limited his playing time. He ultimately appeared in only 468 career regular-season games—the equivalent of fewer than six full 82-game seasons—playing for the Blazers, Clippers, and Celtics, averaging 13.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.2 blocks in 28.3 minutes per game.
Walton was named to the NBA’s 50th and 75th anniversary teams, honoring the greatest players in league history. After his playing career, Walton became a color commentator for NBA and NCAA games, working with several networks, including CBS, NBC, and ABC/ESPN.
We extend our condolences to Bill’s family and friends.