Bill Walton, the dominant NBA big man who won a pair of NBA championships and later enjoyed a successful broadcasting career, has died, the NBA announced Monday. He was 71.
Walton died after a lengthy battle with cancer, the league said. He was surrounded by his family.
“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “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 berth on the NBA’s 50th and 50th anniversary teams.”
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Walton was the No. 1 overall pick in the 1974 draft by the Portland Trail Blazers, and he led the team to their only NBA title in 1977. Named the league’s MVP in 1977–78 and the Sixth Man of the Year in 1985-86. , Walton won another title in 1986 as a member of the Boston Celtics.
Before that, Walton was a two-time champion at UCLA, leading the Bruins to titles in 1972 and 1973 and an 88-game winning streak. His 44 points in the 1973 national championship game remain a record. Walton was also a three-time national player of the year at UCLA while playing for legendary coach John Wooden.
“On behalf of everyone involved with the UCLA men’s basketball program, we are deeply saddened by the passing of Bill Walton,” UCLA head coach Mick Cronin said in a statement, adding: “Beyond his remarkable achievements as a player, it is his relentless energy. enthusiasm for the game and unwavering candor that have been the hallmarks of his larger-than-life personality.”
After his playing career, Walton became a sportscaster known for his colorful commentary, which often included slogans and exaggerations.
“Bill then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to the broadcasts, providing insightful and colorful commentary that entertained generations of basketball fans,” said Silver. “But what I will remember most about him is his zest for life. He was a regular at competitive events – always cheerful, smiling from ear to ear and seeking his wisdom and warmth. I cherished our close friendship and was jealous on his boundless energy and admired the time he took with every person he encountered.”
Walton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.
This story will be updated.
