Bill Walton, a basketball and broadcasting legend, has passed away. Yahoo Sports senior NBA reporter Vincent Goodwill reflects on what made Walton so special to the game.
Walton was known for his colorful personality and unique perspective on the game. He was not afraid to speak his mind and was always true to himself, making him an iconic figure on NBA on NBC. Goodwill recalls memorable moments like Walton’s battles with Snapper Jones and his role as a six man after winning the MVP.
Despite facing challenges like stuttering and health issues, Walton persevered and became one of the premier voices in NBA basketball. Goodwill emphasizes the importance of having diverse voices like Walton’s in the NBA community, especially as the league becomes more corporate and sanitized.
In Walton, Goodwill sees a trailblazer who paved the way for players like Nicola Jokic and Arvida Sabonis, both on and off the court. Walton’s colorful shirts, distinctive voice, and fearless approach to life will be missed in the basketball world. Goodwill’s reflections on Walton’s legacy remind us of the impact one person can have on the game and its community.
