Hall of Famer Bill Walton dies at 71 after long battle with cancer

Two-time NBA Champion and Basketball Hall of Famer Bill Walton has passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was 71 years old.

A member of the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary teams, Walton initially rose to prominence at UCLA, where he won three national college player of the year awards, two national titles and helped lead the Bruins to an 88-game win streak under John Wooden.

He was selected first overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in 1974 and led them to a title in 1977, winning a Finals MVP. He won the NBA’s MVP the following season, was a two-time All-Star, two-time first-team All-NBA recipient, as well as two-time first-team All-Defensive player. He won the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year in 1986 with the Boston Celtics.

Following his playing career, Walton turned to broadcasting, where his wealth of knowledge and infectious personality earned him multiple Emmys over a 30-plus year career behind the microphone.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver released the following statement on his passing:

“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.”