Boston, Massachusetts – The legacy of Bill Walton, a key member of the Boston Celtics’ 1986 championship team, was honored before Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Walton, who played only one season with the Celtics, left an indelible mark on the franchise and the basketball world as a whole.
Family members of Walton were in attendance as a moment of silence was observed, which was momentarily disrupted by a fan expressing love for the late player. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Walton for his passion for the game and his role as a global ambassador for basketball, recalling a memorable trip to the Great Wall of China in 2004.
Described as a champion at every level, Walton’s impact extended beyond the basketball court. The Celtics paid tribute to his love for music by sporting black shooting shirts with “Walton” emblazoned on them against a tie-dye background. The team also wore pins with a similar design as a nod to Walton’s Deadhead status.
During his time at UCLA, Walton led the Bruins to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1972 and 1973, with an impressive 88-game winning streak. In the NBA, he was a key player for the Portland Trail Blazers, winning the NBA MVP award in 1978. Walton later joined the Celtics in 1986, contributing to the team’s victory over the Houston Rockets in the NBA Finals.
Despite facing foot injuries that limited his playing time, Walton’s impact on the Celtics was undeniable. Following his retirement, he transitioned to a successful broadcasting career and gained recognition for his love of the Grateful Dead. In 1993, Walton was rightfully inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying his place in basketball history.
The Celtics, along with players from the opposing team, the Dallas Mavericks, paid their respects to Walton during the touching pregame tribute. Both teams acknowledged Walton’s unwavering dedication to the sport and his teammates, highlighting his enduring influence on the game of basketball. His profound impact on the basketball community will always be remembered, making him one of the greatest Celtics to have ever played the game.