Grief swept over the world of sports as the two-time NBA champion Bill Walton passed away today. The Hall of Fame center succumbed to cancer after a long battle at age 71. As condolences poured in, Patrick Mahomes also took to X to pay his respect to the basketball great.

The ripples of the NBA icon’s demise resounded not only in the basketball world but also in the NFL. The Kansas City Chiefs’ star QB reacted to the news with the words, “Legend! RIP“.

Aaron Rodgers shared a photograph with the late player and expressed remorse at the loss of his friend on Instagram. He wrote, “Crushed to hear the news this am of the passing of my friend Bill Walton.💔 Bill was larger than life, with huge heart and inspiring presence. He impacted every person that he met with a smile, anecdote, word of wisdom, or maybe just a fist bump 👊🏻. I’m grateful to have gotten to know Bill over the years and to call him a friend. 🥹”

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After having a shining career in the NBA, Walton stepped into broadcasting and brought his unique personality to the commentary box. NFL Insider Albert Breer paid his respect to the legend and had some kind words about the off-court side of Walton’s persona. “An absolute legend,” He wrote, “I didn’t get to see him play much, but grew up with him as one of the voices of the NBA. He was so relatable, and seemed like such an awesome guy. Was like he was on the couch watching with you. RIP, Bill Walton.”

The Hall of Famer was not only an excellent sportsman but quite an eccentric figure as well. Walton called himself “the luckiest guy in the world,” which is a testament to his legacy.

Bill Walton’s larger-than-life personality

The NBA commissioner, Adam Silver, shared the heartbreaking news on social media while shedding light on Walton behind the scenes. Calling the legend “truly one of a kind,” he wrote, “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.”

In 2023 came the docuseries, ‘The Luckiest Guy in the World,’ entailing Walton’s journey to basketball, trysts with injuries, and retirement as an entertaining commentator. ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, also a friend of the late star, referenced the quote along with a photograph. He wrote, “Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of my buddy, Bill Walton. His game was ahead of its time, truly one of the greatest big men who ever played. Yet, nothing compared to his passion and love of life, itself. I can hear him now imploring me to “smile……cherish everyday…..we’re all the luckiest ppl on earth.” R.I.P. my guy. Miss you already.” 

Bill Walton had multiple basketball accolades to his name and garnered widespread love for him, spanning across different sports arenas. His colorful legacy and achievements on and off the court would be remembered fondly by his fans, the world of the NBA, and throughout sports.