Whether you loved him or loathed him, there was no denying that Bill Walton was a legend both on and off the college basketball court.
Walton, recently known for his vivacious personality and endless tie-dye wardrobe, spent his college days in Los Angeles, playing for the UCLA Bruins.
ESPN and the NBA shared that the former Bruin passed away from cancer on Monday, May 27. The legend was 71 years old. Walton passed away the day after the last-ever Pac-12 Network game was broadcast (the conference baseball tournament).
Hall of Fame center Bill Walton has died of cancer, the NBA announced. He was 71. pic.twitter.com/M9s9LDO6LG
— ESPN (@espn) May 27, 2024
From 1971-74, Walton averaged 20.3 points and 15.7 rebounds per game and only ever lost one game in NCAA Tournaments.
After college, the former Bruin played 10 seasons in the NBA, starting his career with the Portland Trail Blazers. After four years in Portland, Walton played four seasons with the San Diego (turned LA) Clippers.
Walton closed out his professional career with two seasons for the Boston Celtics.
Then, the unforgettable player became an even more unforgettable commentator, largely for the Pac-12 Network.
RIP to a true legend and a figure larger than life. When you think off the screws, you think of Bill Walton. In a good way of course. He was 1 of 1. A total beauty. Rest easy William.
— Jordan Schmaltz (@J_Swish24) May 27, 2024
-📞📞 pic.twitter.com/Jgwwpfk3V4
The former star on the court, became a star on the sidelines as he made undeniably wild claims and unapologetically pulled for his former team, UCLA.
A constant on the Pac-12 college basketball scene, Walton became notorious for his hot (or sometimes cold) takes and fans learned to love him or hate him.
Walton’s dominance on the court translated well into his success as a commentator, analyst, and broadcast junkie.
And don’t worry, his tie-dye outfits stuck around even when his coworkers would be in a full suit and tie.