NBA legend Bill Walton, a Hall of Famer and two-time NBA champion, has passed away at the age of 71 after a long battle with cancer. The news of his death was confirmed by NBA commissioner Adam Silver, who described Walton as a true one of a kind player who redefined the center position in basketball.
Throughout his illustrious career, Walton won two NBA championships, an MVP, and Finals MVP. He also led the league in blocks and rebounds in 1977, while earning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 1986. After retiring from the NBA in 1990, Walton transitioned into sports media, serving as a color commentator for CBS, NBC, ABC, ESPN, as well as for the Los Angeles Clippers and Sacramento Kings.
Aside from his achievements in basketball and sports media, Walton also had a brief stint in the entertainment industry. He auditioned for the role of Chewbacca in Star Wars, with the character being modeled after him in the end. He also made a cameo appearance in the 1984 Ghostbusters movie.
Tributes have poured in for Walton on social media, with many recalling his magnetic personality and love for the game of basketball. His impact on and off the court will be remembered by generations of fans. Rest in peace, Bill Walton.
