Bill Walton dies at 71: NBA Hall of Famer and 2-time UCLA champion succumbs to cancer

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: NBA legend Bill Walton has died at age 71 while battling prostate cancer.

The Hall of Famer passed away on Monday, May 27, as per his family’s statement.

NBA remembers 'one of a kind' basketball icon Bill Walton

NBA commissioner Adam Silver reacted to the two-time UCLA champion’s death, "Bill Walton was truly one of a kind."

"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. I treasured our close friendship, envied his boundless energy and admired the time he took with every person he encountered," Silver continued.

"As a cherished member of the NBA family for 50 years, Bill will be deeply missed by all those who came to know and love him," he added.

Walton was the NBA's MVP in the 1977-78 season and a member of the league's 50th and 75th anniversary teams as well.

Apart from his success at UCLA, he also went on to become a three-time national player of the year under celebrated coach John Wooden.

The star’s former team Portland Trail Blazers paid tribute to the legend, "Bill Walton was a true legend -- an extraordinary player, talented broadcaster, and vital part of the Blazers organization."

“Bill was so much more than basketball. He was larger than life. His upbeat and vibrant personality will forever be remembered and cherished, and he will be deeply missed by our organization, Rip City and all who experienced him," it read.

After retiring as a pro baseball player, he turned to broadcasting.

"In life, being so self-conscious, red hair, big nose, freckles and goofy, nerdy-looking face and can't talk at all. I was incredibly shy and never said a word," Walton told The Oregonian in 2017.

"Then, when I was 28, I learned how to speak. It's become my greatest accomplishment of my life and everybody else's biggest nightmare," he added.

Fans mourn Bill Walton's death after prolonged battle with cancer

"Today is a sad day for sport entertainment industry," a fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

The second remarked, "We need more of him in this world. May his memory be a blessing to all who loved him. 🙏🏼❤️."

"Bill Walton was so great. We'll all Miss him," another commented.

"A true legend. All time great. He will be missed and my heart goes out to his family," a user said.

Another admirer wrote, "What's interesting is that, Bill was real quiet growing up before becoming the big personality he became as radio legend Chuck Swirsky mentioned. RIP"

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.