The NBA just lost one of the greatest to ever play the game when Bill Walton passed away recently. Among the countless personalities who have paid their tribute to the two-time champion is no other than former United States President Barack Obama.
After a standout high school career, Walton’s reputation grew when he committed to UCLA and spent four years playing college basketball there. During that period, he won three straight NCAA championships but failed to win one during his senior year.
During the 1974 Draft, Walton was selected first by the Portland Trail Blazers to become their starting center. Unfortunately, his first two seasons was plagued by various foot injuries which severely limited his time on the court. Even if that’s the case, the 6’11” big man from UCLA posted 14.8 points, 13.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game.
Over time, the two-time All-Star big man got better and led Portland to a championship in 1977. However, Walton was constantly plagued by injuries all throughout his stint as a Trail Blazer. He would later win another ring with the Boston Celtics during the 1985-86 season, along with the league’s Sixth Man of the Year award.
Ex-President Barack Obama Pays Tribute To Two-Time NBA Champion Bill Walton With Painful Message
Just recently, Walton passed away at the age of 71 after battling cancer for a long time. Among those who have paid their tribute to the former Portland Trail Blazers star is no other than ex-United States president Barack Obama in a post he shared on X.
“Bill Walton was one of the greatest basketball players of all time – a champion at every level and the embodiment of unselfish team play. He was also a wonderful spirit full of curiosity, humor and kindness. We are poorer for his passing, and Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family,” Obama tweeted.
Over the years, Walton spent his time as a commentator for and lead NBA analyst for ESPN until 2002. He shifted to college basketball and lent his voice to covering Pac-12 Games in the NCAA Tournament.
Walton’s career, both off and on the court, is a testament of excellence and resiliency amidst adversity. Without a doubt, his body of work in the NBA and as a professional covering the league speaks volumes about the impact he left on the sport.
For More Great Basketball Content
Follow me on Twitter at @BeatKit22 and follow us @HardwoodHeroics for more great content. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in college and professional sports, click here!
