The Boston Celtics joined the basketball community in mourning Bill Walton’s passing.
Boston celebrated Walton as “one of the most consequential players of his era” in a tribute posted Monday after he died of cancer at age 71.
“A Hall of Famer, Most Valuable Player, and two-time NBA Champion, Walton could do it all, possessing great timing, complete vision of the floor, excellent fundamentals, and was one of the greatest passing big men in league history,” the Celtics wrote. “He derived great joy from basketball and music, and deeply cherished his moments with teammates and friends.”
Walton won two national championships at UCLA long before going to the Celtics. While he earned MVP honors with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1977-78, foot injuries limited him to just 47 games over the next five seasons.
However, Walton enjoyed a fruitful second act to close his career. He won Sixth Man of the Year with 6.8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game off Boston’s bench in 1985-86 before winning his second NBA title.
Walton only played 10 more games before injuries forced him to retire. He spent years delivering the most colorful color commentary for ESPN.
The Hall of Famer’s final team honored Walton’s passion on and off the court.
“As a Celtic, Bill overcame years of debilitating injuries, regained his zest for the game, and helped guide the 1986 Boston Celtics championship with both his play and his spirit,” they wrote. “The Boston Celtics celebrate Bill’s wonderful life and legacy, and send their deepest sympathies to the Walton family.”