Hall of Famer basketball player Bill Walton covers the ASU Sun Devil versus USC Trojans game. Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Bill Walton facing criticism for offensive remarks during broadcast

Listening to Bill Walton call a college basketball game can be an out-of-this-world experience, but sometimes he ends up flying a little too close to the sun and engulfs himself in a firestorm of controversy.

That happened on Thursday night during ESPN's Pac-12 Tournament broadcast between Arizona State and USC.

Walton is facing criticism from the Little People of America, who are also demanding an apology from the basketball Hall of Famer, after he twice used the M-word during the broadcast.

"Those who use the term m----- or any terminology that further stigmatizes people born with dwarfism are asked to educate themselves to eradicate this word," the group told TMZ Sports

"Little People of America is asking Bill Walton to issue an apology and vow to use appropriate terminology rooted in respect and dignity going forward."

Walton made the reference twice when referring to the arena's in-game host.

Walton has been longtime broadcaster for ESPN and the Pac-12 Network and has become famous for a unique style that utilizes hyperbole and outlandish commentary that oftentimes can have nothing to do with the game taking place in front of him. It can be entertaining at times, but on Thursday he went too far and got himself in trouble.

He has yet to make a statement or apology for the remarks. 

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