Basketball Hall of Famer and storied sports broadcaster Bill Walton passed away Monday at the age of 71 after a long battle with cancer.
Walton was a dominant basketball player, earning a Finals MVP Award in 1977 with the Portland Trail Blazers and then following that championship up with a regular season MVP win in 1978. His love for the game was evident even after his career ended, when Walton turned to the broadcast booth. As a broadcaster, Walton was known for his eccentric style, legendary one-liners, and insightful commentary. He will be greatly missed.
Here are some reactions to Walton’s passing from some of sports media’s biggest figures.
KAREEM ABDUL-JABBAR Basketball icon pays tribute to Bill Walton in touching statement
Sports world reacts to Bill Walton’s death
AS SEEN ON TV: The best moments from Bill Walton’s broadcasting career