Former United States President Barack Obama has mourned the death of National Basketball Association (NBA) Hall of Fame Bill Walton.
Through his X account on Tuesday, Obama referred to Walton as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
He said Walton was 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 said.
In a statement on Monday, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said Walton was known in the league for his unique all-around skills.
“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,” Silver said.
He noted that Walton then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colorful commentary.
“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,” the NBA commissioner added.
Walton passed on at the age of 71 after a long battle with cancer, NBA announced on Monday.
He was known for his legendary college basketball career in California and for overcoming a stutter to build a successful broadcasting career.
The Basketball player played centre for the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)’s basketball team from 1971 to 1974.
It was with that team he led the Bruins to two championship wins and an 88-game winning streak.
Walton’s professional career lasted only 468 games and was cut short due chronic foot injuries.
But his basketball journey did not end there.
Walton was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame in 1993 after his time playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, the San Diego (now Los Angeles) Clippers and the Boston Celtics.
After his professional run ended, he overcame a stutter to begin his broadcasting career.