(AP Photo/Michael Dwyer
The Boston Celtics, one of the most famous franchises in the NBA, paid a heartfelt tribute to NBA legend and 1986 champion Bill Walton before Game 1 of the NBA Finals. The tribute was a reminder of Walton’s unforgettable impact on the team and the sport of basketball.
Remembering a Legend
Bill Walton, who passed away on May 27 at the age of 71, was a titan of the game. A three-time national player of the year at UCLA, Walton led the Bruins to the NCAA championship in 1972 and ’73 during a record 88-game winning streak. His NBA career was equally amazing. He was the runner-up for NBA MVP in 1977, when the Trail Blazers won the NBA title, and won the award the next year.
Despite spending only one full season with the Boston Celtics, Walton’s impact was profound. He was the sixth man on the Celtics’ 1986 championship team, a key contributor that helped the Celtics secure their unprecedented 16th championship.
A Fitting Tribute to Bill Walton by Celtics
The Celtics’ tribute to Bill Walton was a touching affair. They honored Walton by wearing tie-dyed warm-up shirts with ‘WALTON’ written on the front. This nod to Walton’s well-known affinity for the Grateful Dead was a fitting way to remember a man who was as colorful off the court as he was skilled on it.
In addition to the warm-up shirts, the players’ jerseys had a black band with Walton’s name on the shoulder. The Celtics staff wore pins with a similar design. The tribute ended with a moment of silence, which was interrupted by a fan yelling, “We love you, Bill!”.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also paid his respects, calling Walton a friend whose evident love for the game helped spread basketball around the world. “I can’t think of a better ambassador for the NBA than Bill. He enjoyed talking to every single person,” Silver said before the game.
A Legacy That Lives On
Bill Walton’s legacy extends beyond his achievements on the court. He was a beloved figure in the basketball community, known for his unselfish team play and his passion for the game. His second career as a broadcaster — and his status as a dedicated Grateful Dead follower — only added to his larger-than-life persona.
Walton’s presence filled the arena as the Celtics faced off against the Dallas Mavericks in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. His memory continues to inspire players and fans alike, reminding us all of the joy and camaraderie that basketball can bring.
In the words of the public address announcer, “He derived great joy from basketball and music, and deeply cherished his moments with teammates and friends. We are proud to call him one of the greatest Celtics who ever lived.”
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