"This is dedicated to Bill Walton": Celtics governor Wyc Grousbeck dedicates Eastern Conference crown to NBA icon
The NBA world was shocked by the news of Bill Walton's death. The legendary center lost a prolonged battle with cancer, the league announced on Monday.
As the Boston Celtics secured a spot in the 2024 NBA Finals, majority owner Wyc Grousbeck dedicated the win to Walton, who won a championship and the Sixth Man of the Year award with the Celtics in 1986.
"All I can think about right now is we lost a great Celtic today. Bill Walton, one of the greatest Celtics of all time. This is dedicated to Bill," Grousbeck said while the team celebrated the win.
Walton left a huge mark on the game, becoming an NBA legend during his active days and sharing his knowledge with fans as a commentator.
A two-time NBA champion with the Blazers and the Celtics, Walton is considered one of the greatest centers of all time. He only played 468 games due to foot and knee issues but still made an impact whenever he set foot on the court.
The Celtics honored Walton ahead of the game with a heartfelt post on X/Twitter.
"Bill Walton was one of the most consequential players of his era. A Hall of Famer, Most Valuable Player, and two-time NBA Champion, Walton could do it all, possessing great timing, complete vision of the floor, excellent fundamentals, and was of one of the greatest passing big men in league history.
"He derived great joy from basketball and music, and deeply cherished his moments with teammates and friends."
Adam Silver issues statement on Bill Walton's death
Bill Walton was not only one of the best players in his position but also a beloved commentator whether he covered the NBA or college basketball. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver shared a touching message, remembering and celebrating Walton's impact.
“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind. 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.
"Bill then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colorful commentary which entertained generations of basketball fans."
The Celtics are closer to winning the NBA championship and ending a 16-year drought since their 2008 triumph. Curiously, the last time the Celtics had won a championship before the Big Three happened when Walton was a member of the team.