"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How did The Waltons die?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"During the latter half of the 1976–77 season, Grandma Esther Walton suffers a stroke and returns home shortly before the death of her husband, Grandpa Zeb Walton (reflecting Ellen Corby's real-life stroke and the death of Will Geer, the actors who portrayed those characters)."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which Walton died in a plane crash?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Wal-Mart heir and philanthropist John T. Walton died Monday in Wyoming, when the experimental, ultra-light aircraft he was piloting crashed, the Associated Press reports."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is Bill Walton doing now?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"He is currently the executive chairman of SD Sport Innovators (SDSI), a non-profit, business accelerating organization that connects and drives the growth of Southern California's vibrant sports and active lifestyle economy."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Does Bill Walton have a speech impediment?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Growing up, one of her idols was Bill Walton - a college basketball superstar and National Basketball Association (NBA) hall of famer who later built a successful career as a sports broadcaster, despite having a stutter for all of his life."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Did Bill Walton have red hair?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Walton was a 6-foot-11 redhead, curiosity seeker, Grateful Dead fan and TV analyst, who just happened to be one of the greatest basketball players to ever live."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How tall is Bill Walton actually?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Walton rose to prominence in the early 1970s as the starting center for coach John Wooden and the UCLA Bruins. The 6-foot-11-inch (2.11 m) Walton won three consecutive national college player of the year awards (1972–1974), while leading UCLA to NCAA championships in 1972 and 1973 and an 88-game winning streak."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How many Grateful Dead shows has Bill Walton seen?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"In his 2016 biography \"Back From the Dead,\" Walton wrote that he attended 869 Grateful Dead concerts. With Dead & Company's emergence in 2015, it's been speculated that Walton attended more than 1,000 concerts between the two hands."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Did Bill Walton ever win the NBA championship?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The Hall of Fame center was an NBA MVP, Finals MVP and named to the NBA's 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams. A larger than life figure on and off the court, Hall of Famer Bill Walton was truly one of the giants of the game. Bill Walton was never afraid to be himself."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Does Bill Walton have a son in the NBA?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Walton's four sons entered the family business as well with Luke playing and coaching in the NBA. He won two titles with the Los Angeles Lakers and later coached both the Lakers and Sacramento. Walton's other sons played as well. It was a true basketball family."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Did The Waltons have twins?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"James Robert \"Jim-Bob\" Walton

Harper), better known as Jim-Bob, is the youngest Walton boy and sixth child of John and Olivia Walton. He and Joseph Zebulon were born on January 13, 1924, but only he survived as his twin was stillborn. Jim-Bob is the only Walton child who was born in a hospital, rather than at home."}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Does Bill Walton have any brothers?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Walton's older brother, Bruce, who died in 2019, had a brief career with the Dallas Cowboys."}}]}}

Bill Walton dies: Social media reacts to the news (2024)

UCLA and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Bill Walton died Monday at the age of 71 following a battle with cancer.

Walton was known as one of the most outspoken and charismatic figures in the sports world. He played for coach John Wooden and led the Bruins to back-to-back NCAA titles as a sophom*ore (1972) and junior (1973) before playing for the Portland Trailblazers, Clippers and Boston Celtics in the NBA (1974-87).

Bill Walton, UCLA great, NBA Hall of Famer, broadcasting star, dies at age 71

Here’s how Walton’s colleagues and fans, among others, reacted to the news:

UCLA mourns the passing of two-time NCAA champion Bill Walton, a Naismith Hall of Fame inductee (1993) and charter member of the @UCLAAthletics Hall of Fame (1984).

𝑰𝑵 𝑴𝑬𝑴𝑶𝑹𝑰𝑨𝑴: https://t.co/VwZwd9uVDs pic.twitter.com/6GrCWvplK7

— UCLA Men’s Basketball (@UCLAMBB) May 27, 2024

Today I had to say goodbye to
a great friend that I will always miss….@UCLAAthletics @UCLAMBB @NBA pic.twitter.com/JIA3sORJgY

— Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (@kaj33) May 27, 2024

No, Bill. Thank you for your life. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/3LCRvs4XlJ

— Pac-12 Conference (@pac12) May 27, 2024

Was on family walk when my son told me news of Bill’s passing, had to stop and put hands on my knees, those who know me know how much I loved Bill, my first sports hero along with Jerry West, first saw him play when I was 11 and he was at UCLA in ‘72, winning two titles…cont.

— Mike from the OC (@MikefromOC) May 27, 2024

Bill Walton has passed away at the age of 71.

2x NCAA Champion
2x NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player
3x National College Player of the Year
3x First-Team All American
1993 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee

A legend of the game forever. pic.twitter.com/t8Bk16dpdx

— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) May 27, 2024

I’m going to miss Bill Walton…his humor, infectious smile, zest for life etc. We missed playing ⁦@MarchMadnessMBB⁩ against each other ⁦@GopherMBB⁩ during his ⁦@UCLA⁩ championship years as we got eliminated before a head to head matchup. #RIP my friend ⁦⁦ pic.twitter.com/IrtODQvzsE

— Dave Winfield (@DaveWinfieldHOF) May 27, 2024

Bill Walton was an ICONIC sportscaster

here is a clip of some of his funniest moments on the mic:

REST IN PEACE, LEGEND 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/0i3p6QqV18

— Degenerate George (@DGen_Media) May 27, 2024

There will never be another Bill. Love you & miss you my friend. pic.twitter.com/JiVJyQHIO4

— Dave Pasch (@DavePasch) May 27, 2024

Bill Walton was one of the greatest basketball players of all time – a champion at every level and the embodiment of unselfish team play. He was also a wonderful spirit full of curiosity, humor and kindness. We are poorer for his passing, and Michelle and I send our deepest…

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 27, 2024

RIP to a legend and a Bruin Great! Conference of Champions!!! pic.twitter.com/bHf8NUKZuZ

— Keisean Lucier-South (@KLSouth11) May 27, 2024

Jo and I are shaken to our roots over the passing of dear friend Bill Walton. I never knew a better, more generous man. Our thoughts are with Lori and the Walton sons. RIP Bill. pic.twitter.com/GE0hVtvtFQ

— Ralph Lawler (@Ohmeomy) May 27, 2024

https://x.com/MagicJohnson/status/1795167111762911259

Devastated to hear the news of Bill Walton passing. He was always so kind to my family. My dad went to UCLA with him and always had great stories as they rehabbed sports injuries together. RIP Bill, doing an 8 clap for you 👏🏻🩵💛 @UCLA_Alumni ties that bind! We will miss you,… pic.twitter.com/T605C6WHDz

— Marina Jurica (@MJuricaCBS47) May 27, 2024

RIP Bill Walton 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/eg4dl9MDQW

— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) May 27, 2024

I am sad today hearing that my comrade & one of the sports worlds most beloved champions & characters has passed. Bill Walton enjoyed life in every way. To compete against him & to work with him was a blessing in my life. Sorry for your loss Walton family. We’ll miss him too. Doc pic.twitter.com/GAEt1DRH8N

— Julius Dr J Erving (@JuliusErving) May 27, 2024

https://x.com/malika_andrews/status/1795196017400316201

Two-time NBA champion and Hall of Famer Bill Walton has died of cancer at the age of 71. @nba #nba @UCLAAthletics @UCLAMBB #billwalton @celtics #celtics #champion #trailblazers #clippers @SGVNSports @JHWreporter pic.twitter.com/EWC1IjLTPF

— Keith Birmingham (@photowkb) May 27, 2024

Heartbroken 💔 to hear that Bill has gone home to the Lord🙏🏽He had a unique ability to always make you feel energized when in his orbit and erudite afterwards. Bill was 💯organic. Caring teammate. It was a highlight to work with him. Praying for his wife Lori & his family ❤️🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/U2kKwhhjSE

— MarkJonesESPN (@MarkJonesESPN) May 27, 2024

Like butter pic.twitter.com/HPH4Sb4wrB

— ReasonForTheHope (@MacJW) May 27, 2024

.@JayBilas remembers Bill Walton ❤️

"He may have been the greatest college basketball player of all time. He was an all-time great pro as well. ... But more than that ... He was an absolutely magnificent, beautiful person that you just loved to be around at all times." pic.twitter.com/oolIQZxrbu

— ESPN (@espn) May 27, 2024

Crushed to hear of Bill Walton’s passing. He was a legend and larger than life in every way. His passionate curiosity and kindness were so rare and made him a joy to work with. My heart goes out to his wonderful family and beautiful wife, Lori. May the conference of champions… pic.twitter.com/zxdFK2WxSi

— Molly McGrath (@MollyAMcGrath) May 27, 2024

Bill Walton was truly a national treasure pic.twitter.com/oHJMaSRDTk

— Tyler Conway (@jtylerconway) May 27, 2024

The man took a joyride through the cosmos.

Thank you for your life. pic.twitter.com/RuYC2d2xs7

— Scott Van Pelt (@notthefakeSVP) May 27, 2024

One of our favorite Bill Walton memories 😆 RIP to the hilarious big man (via @espn) @DavePasch pic.twitter.com/mztN8m2rSD

— ESPN Los Angeles (@ESPNLosAngeles) May 27, 2024

Today we mourn the passing of legendary Hall of Famer Bill Walton. He was a true friend to the Hall and a persistent champion for what the sport can accomplish in the lives of those who play.

Our sincere condolences to his family and friends. Bill’s contributions to the NBA and… pic.twitter.com/E96su9O9fJ

— Basketball HOF (@Hoophall) May 27, 2024

“I’m the luckiest dude in the world.”

- Bill Walton ☮️❤️🕊️ pic.twitter.com/Z9qSP2rW8b

— Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz (@LeBatardShow) May 27, 2024

https://x.com/ESPNPR/status/1795179319939027217

I’m heartbroken over the passing of one of the kindest humans ever put on this earth. Bill went out of his way to be nice to all. Putting smiles on faces. He loved and lived life to the fullest. Always entertaining and made every game an event on and off the court. Sending my… pic.twitter.com/WATTYqiPAs

— Linda Cohn (@lindacohn) May 27, 2024

4s Up for our family ✊🏾 https://t.co/olDDVLkvhB

— Dylan Andrews (@dylan_andrews4) May 27, 2024

https://x.com/CassidyHubbarth/status/1795220441843253474

Fight On Forever… https://t.co/K22tsxg5DI pic.twitter.com/QRwiwabRm4

— USC Men's Basketball (@USC_Hoops) May 27, 2024

RIP to a true legend and one of a kind personality, Bill Walton.

We know Bill’s legacy will continue to Shine On! pic.twitter.com/CQsROEET1D

— Arizona Basketball (@ArizonaMBB) May 27, 2024

A singular icon of the game & an ambassador for Cal, the @Pac12 & all of basketball. Our hearts are with the family & friends of Bill Walton. pic.twitter.com/yTS49xRVjQ

— Cal Basketball (@CalMBBall) May 27, 2024

We were all the luckiest in the world to be around one of the greatest ambassadors to the game of basketball, Bill Walton.

Bill's exuberant spirit was a gift each and every time he visited UW and he will be deeply missed. pic.twitter.com/dYUMtoxLwk

— Washington Men's Basketball (@UW_MBB) May 27, 2024

RIP Bill. Whether making precise outlet passes 2 ignite a fast break, bicycling, reading, broadcasting, standing up 4 those in need, sharing wine & stories, dancing under stars on Grateful Dead tours or expressing luv 4 Lori & your children YOU WERE ALWAYS FULLY ENGAGED IN LIFE💙 pic.twitter.com/h0UWwC3ljJ

— Steve Lavin (@SteveLavin64) May 27, 2024

RELATED

Bill Walton, UCLA great, NBA Hall of Famer, broadcasting star, dies at age 71

Bill Walton dies: Social media reacts to the news (2024)

FAQs

What did Bill Walton die of? ›

Walton died Monday at the age of 71 after a prolonged fight with cancer, the league announced on behalf of his family.

Does Bill Walton have cancer? ›

Bill Walton, known as a former Basketball Hall of Fame inductee and sports broadcaster, died from cancer at age 71. It was reported that Walton died after “a prolonged fight with cancer,” according to the NBA.

Why is Bill Walton famous? ›

One of the most decorated college basketball players of all time, Walton led UCLA to back-to-back NCAA titles as a sophom*ore and junior, in 1972 and 1973, capping a string of seven consecutive NCAA championships won by the Bruins from 1967 through 1973.

Was Bill Walton ever married? ›

How did The Waltons die? ›

During the latter half of the 1976–77 season, Grandma Esther Walton suffers a stroke and returns home shortly before the death of her husband, Grandpa Zeb Walton (reflecting Ellen Corby's real-life stroke and the death of Will Geer, the actors who portrayed those characters).

Which Walton died in a plane crash? ›

Wal-Mart heir and philanthropist John T. Walton died Monday in Wyoming, when the experimental, ultra-light aircraft he was piloting crashed, the Associated Press reports.

What is Bill Walton doing now? ›

He is currently the executive chairman of SD Sport Innovators (SDSI), a non-profit, business accelerating organization that connects and drives the growth of Southern California's vibrant sports and active lifestyle economy.

Does Bill Walton have a speech impediment? ›

Growing up, one of her idols was Bill Walton - a college basketball superstar and National Basketball Association (NBA) hall of famer who later built a successful career as a sports broadcaster, despite having a stutter for all of his life.

Did Bill Walton have red hair? ›

Walton was a 6-foot-11 redhead, curiosity seeker, Grateful Dead fan and TV analyst, who just happened to be one of the greatest basketball players to ever live.

How tall is Bill Walton actually? ›

Walton rose to prominence in the early 1970s as the starting center for coach John Wooden and the UCLA Bruins. The 6-foot-11-inch (2.11 m) Walton won three consecutive national college player of the year awards (1972–1974), while leading UCLA to NCAA championships in 1972 and 1973 and an 88-game winning streak.

How many Grateful Dead shows has Bill Walton seen? ›

In his 2016 biography "Back From the Dead," Walton wrote that he attended 869 Grateful Dead concerts. With Dead & Company's emergence in 2015, it's been speculated that Walton attended more than 1,000 concerts between the two hands.

Did Bill Walton ever win the NBA championship? ›

The Hall of Fame center was an NBA MVP, Finals MVP and named to the NBA's 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams. A larger than life figure on and off the court, Hall of Famer Bill Walton was truly one of the giants of the game. Bill Walton was never afraid to be himself.

Does Bill Walton have a son in the NBA? ›

Walton's four sons entered the family business as well with Luke playing and coaching in the NBA. He won two titles with the Los Angeles Lakers and later coached both the Lakers and Sacramento. Walton's other sons played as well. It was a true basketball family.

Did The Waltons have twins? ›

James Robert "Jim-Bob" Walton

Harper), better known as Jim-Bob, is the youngest Walton boy and sixth child of John and Olivia Walton. He and Joseph Zebulon were born on January 13, 1924, but only he survived as his twin was stillborn. Jim-Bob is the only Walton child who was born in a hospital, rather than at home.

Does Bill Walton have any brothers? ›

Walton's older brother, Bruce, who died in 2019, had a brief career with the Dallas Cowboys.

What disease did Sam Walton die from? ›

Death. Walton died on Sunday, April 5, 1992 (three months shy of Walmart's thirtieth anniversary), of multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, in Little Rock, Arkansas. A few days earlier, according to his son, Walton was still reviewing sales data in his hospital bed.

Why did John Walton leave The Waltons? ›

Many young actors would give anything to have a lead role on a hit TV show. But Richard Thomas, who spent five seasons playing John-Boy Walton on CBS's The Waltons, feared that sticking with the show would eventually do his career more harm than good.

What did Grandpa Walton die of in real life? ›

Will passed away from respiratory failure on April 22, 1978, shortly after filming Season 6 of The Waltons. Will's final episode of the show featured Grandpa reuniting with Grandma Esther — Ellen Corby, who played Grandma, had been absent for Season 6 of the show due to suffering a stroke.

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