The basketball community is in sorrow over the passing of Bill Walton, the renowned center who steered the Portland Trail Blazers to triumph in the 1977 NBA Championship. Walton has lost his battle with cancer at the age of 71.
Trained by John Wooden at UCLA, Walton made a name for himself as a standout player and secured a spot in the NBA Hall of Fame despite his career being plagued by recurring foot injuries. He played a crucial role in guiding his unfancied Blazers team to a victory against the favored Philadelphia 76ers during the 1977 Finals. Subsequently, following his recovery from injuries, Walton made significant contributions as the sixth man to the Boston Celtics’ victory in the 1986 Finals, under the leadership of Larry Bird.
Walton’s enthusiasm extended into his broadcasting career, where he became a beloved analyst for NBA and college basketball games, injecting broadcasts with his lively personality.
The passing of Bill Walton is heartbreakingly sorrowful. Bill was one of the most charming and passionate enthusiasts of basketball I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting in my profession. He will be greatly missed. My sincerest condolences go out to his son Luke, their family, and all those who cherished Bill. https://t.co/fsQSOYXSe9
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) May 27, 2024
Luke Walton, Bill’s son, not only had a career in the NBA but also led both the Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings as a head coach. In the most recent season, Luke worked as an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers.
