"Bill Walton passing on at the very end of Pac-12 is extremely sad": College hoops world reacts to UCLA legend's death at 71

The world of basketball mourns the loss of a true legend, Bill Walton, who passed away at the age of 71 on May 27. Walton, a two-time NBA champion and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, was a transformative figure in the sport, redefining the center position with his unique all-around skills.

His illustrious career began with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1974, leading them to an NBA championship in 1977, and culminated with the Boston Celtics in 1988.

Bill Walton’s passing leaves a void in the basketball community, and fans mourn the untimely demise of UCLA legend:

“This Man passing on at the very end of the Pac-12 is extremely sad but poetic,” one fan said.

“Kinda surreal that the day after the final PAC12 game ever that Bill passed away. RIP Bill,” another fan said.

“This one hurt. Hate watching my heroes get old,” a fan said.

"On the same weekend as the last official conference event of the Conference of Champions," one fan said.

Other fans mentioned the things about Wilton that they're going to miss.

“Going to miss his voice and his Hawaiian and tye dye shirts rip Legend,” another fan said.

“I’m gonna miss his off tangent ramblings,” one fan said.

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NBA Commissioner Adam Silver pays tribute to Bill Walton

Walton’s impact on the court was matched by his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game, which he translated into a successful broadcasting career with ESPN, NBC Sports, and CBS Sports. His insightful and colorful commentary entertained generations of basketball fans, earning him an Emmy Award in 1991.

NBA commissioner Silver paid tribute to Bill Walton's stellar career, MVP title, two championships, and spots on the NBA's 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams in a statement.

“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind. As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the center position ... what I will remember most about him was his zest for life. He was a regular presence at league events – always upbeat, smiling ear to ear and looking to share his wisdom and warmth. I treasured our close friendship, envied his boundless energy and admired the time he took with every person he encountered," Silver said in a statement.

Silver remembered Walton as a “one of a kind” player and a man with a zest for life. Despite his prolonged battle with cancer, Walton remained a regular presence at league events, always upbeat, smiling ear to ear, and looking to share his wisdom and warmth.