Legendary NBA center Bill Walton, who led the Portland Trail Blazers to the championship in 1977, has died after a battle with cancer. He was 71.
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Walton played for coach John Wooden at UCLA and became an NBA Hall of Famer, though his career was marred by foot injuries. His Blazers team stunned the highly favored Philadelphia 76ers in the '77 Finals before his career was grounded. He eventually bounced back to become a major factor off the bench for the Larry Bird-led Boston Celtics in the 1986 Finals.
Walton went on the become a beloved in-game analyst for both NBA and college games, his colorful personality being the perfect match for television.
"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," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "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."
Walton's son, Luke, went on to play in the NBA and has served as head coach of both the Los Angeles Lakers and Sacramento Kings. Luke spent this past season as an assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
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