Legendary basketball star Bill Walton passed away yesterday, succumbing to a prolonged battle with cancer at the age of 71. He was known for both his Hall of Fame career on the court and his award-winning broadcasting performances while calling games.
The 6-foot-11-inch Walton redefined the center position with his elite skills on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. A three-time national player of the year for UCLA, he led the Bruins to the national championship in 1972 and 1973. Drafted first overall by the Portland Trailblazers, Walton—despite a professional career hampered by foot injuries—won two NBA titles (1977, 1986) and was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player for the 1977-78 season.
Following his playing career, Walton overcame a lifelong stutter and became a fan favorite while calling games with a loose personality and frequent tangents (see best moments), winning an Emmy in 1991.
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