Hall of Fame center Bill Walton passed away at 71 years old on Memorial Day on Monday, May 27th, 2024. The legendary center had some iconic moments over his basketball career, including his days with UCLA and also in the NBA where he retired as a two-time NBA champion and two-time All-Star. In memory of one of the all-time great players for the Portland Trail Blazers and Boston Celtics, we have collected Bill Walton’s 10 greatest career moments.
1. 1977 NBA Finals MVP Performance
In the 1977 NBA Finals, Bill Walton led the Portland Trail Blazers to their first and only NBA championship. The series against the Philadelphia 76ers showcased Walton's dominance as he averaged 18.5 points, 19.0 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 3.7 blocks per game. His defensive prowess and rebounding were crucial in slowing down the 76ers' attack, and his offensive skills helped secure critical victories. Walton's leadership and on-court performance were instrumental in the Blazers' stunning comeback from a 0-2 deficit to win the series 4-2.
Walton's impact was most evident in Game 6, where he recorded 20 points, 23 rebounds, 7 assists, and 8 blocks. This performance epitomized his ability to influence the game in multiple ways, earning him the Finals MVP award. His play in the Finals was a defining moment in his career, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stage and cementing his status as one of the greatest big men in NBA history.
2. 1978 NBA Regular Season MVP
During the 1977-78 season, Walton showcased his all-around game and basketball IQ, leading the Trail Blazers to a league-best record (58-24) before injuries cut his season short. Averaging 18.9 points, 13.2 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game, Walton demonstrated his versatility and ability to dominate both ends of the floor. His passing skills were particularly noteworthy, as he often initiated the Blazers' offense from the post, creating opportunities for his teammates with his exceptional vision and had some iconic battles with other elite players at his position.
Despite being limited to 58 games due to injury, Walton's impact was undeniable, and he was awarded the NBA MVP. His ability to control the game defensively while also being a focal point offensively made him a unique and invaluable player. Walton's MVP season solidified his reputation as one of the most talented and well-rounded centers in the history of the league.
3. 1986 NBA Championship With The Boston Celtics
Walton's career was revitalized in 1985-86 when he joined the Boston Celtics, providing a crucial spark off the bench for one of the greatest teams in NBA history. Playing behind Hall of Fame center Robert Parish, Walton accepted his role as the team's sixth man and made significant contributions throughout the season. His presence allowed the Celtics to maintain their high level of play even when their starters were resting.
In the 1986 NBA Finals, Walton's experience and skill were vital in the Celtics' victory over the Houston Rockets. His performances in the Finals did not go unnoticed, as he posted 8.0 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Walton's contributions were recognized as he won the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, and his second championship was a testament to his resilience and ability to adapt to a new role while still impacting the game at the highest level.
4. 1985-86 NBA Sixth Man Of The Year
Walton's journey to winning the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in the 1985-86 season was a remarkable comeback story. After years of battling injuries that had significantly limited his playing time, Walton found a new role with the Boston Celtics. Coming off the bench, he averaged 7.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, providing the Celtics with a reliable and skilled backup for Robert Parish.
Walton's ability to impact the game despite his reduced minutes was a testament to his basketball intelligence and adaptability. He provided the Celtics with not only statistical contributions but also leadership and a championship mentality. His play was instrumental in the Celtics achieving the best record in the NBA and ultimately winning the championship.
5. 1978 NBA All-Star Game
Walton earned his second All-Star selection in 1978, further solidifying his status as one of the league's premier centers. Walton's skills were on full display as he contributed to the Western Conference's victory by posting 15 points, 10 rebounds, and two blocks in a dominant performance as a starter.
Walton's participation in the All-Star Game highlighted his ability to perform on the big stage and was a testament to his all-around game. His presence in the game, despite the injuries that had plagued his career, demonstrated his resilience and dedication to the sport.
6. 1983-1985 Comeback Seasons With The Clippers
After several seasons plagued by injuries, Walton's comeback with the San Diego Clippers in the 1982-83 season was a significant moment in his career. He played 33 games, posting 14.1 points and 9.8 rebounds per game after missing two straight seasons with a foot injury. In 1983-84, Walton played even more games by appearing 55 times and averaged 12.1 points and 8.7 rebounds per game.
The most memorable moment of Walton’s run with the Clippers came in 1984-85, as Walton played 67 games which was the most he had managed since his early years with Portland, averaging 10.1 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game. His return to consistent play was a testament to his determination and love for the game.
Walton's comeback was particularly impressive given the severity and frequency of his injuries. His contribution to the Clippers even if he missed the playoffs with the team for three straight years was a welcomed sight because he would be rewarded again by joining the Celtics one year later.
7. 1974 NBA Draft
Walton's selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the 1974 NBA Draft by the Portland Trail Blazers marked the beginning of his professional career. Coming off an illustrious college career at UCLA, Walton was highly anticipated as a game-changing talent. His entry into the NBA brought with it high expectations and the promise of transforming the Trail Blazers into a competitive team.
Walton's early years in the NBA were marked by both brilliance and challenges, as injuries began to take their toll. Despite this, his talent and impact on the court were evident from the start. His draft selection and subsequent performances set the stage for his later successes and established him as one of the premier big men in the league.
8. A Dominant Rookie Campaign
In his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers during the 1974-75 NBA campaign, Bill Walton immediately showcased why he was the first overall pick in the draft. Despite being hampered by injuries, Walton's impact on the court was undeniable. In 35 games, he averaged 12.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2.7 blocks per game. His rebounding and shot-blocking prowess were particularly impressive, establishing him as a formidable presence in the paint at 22 years old following a dominant campaign at UCLA.
Walton's influence extended beyond his impressive statistics. His basketball IQ and court vision allowed him to excel as a passer, a rare skill for a center at that time. Walton's rookie season laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious career, and his early performances provided a glimpse of the greatness that was to come because the Portland Trail Blazers won nine more games with Walton as a rookie.
9. Career-High 36 Points Against The Atlanta Hawks In 1976
On November 9, 1976, Bill Walton delivered an unforgettable performance by scoring a career-high 36 points against the Atlanta Hawks. This game was a showcase of Walton's offensive versatility and dominance in the paint because the Trail Blazers won the game 116-109 despite 42 points from John Drew.
He demonstrated his scoring prowess by efficiently converting field goals and taking advantage of his height and skills to outmaneuver the Hawks' defense. Walton's ability to score from various positions on the court, including his signature post moves and mid-range jumpers, kept the Hawks off balance and highlighted his offensive capabilities. He went 17-22 from the field and chipped in 22 rebounds and six assists in the victory.
10. Inducted Into Hall Of Fame In 1993
In 1993, Bill Walton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a fitting recognition of his outstanding contributions to the game of basketball. This honor reflected Walton's remarkable career, marked by his dominant play, exceptional skills, and perseverance through numerous injuries.
His achievements included leading the Portland Trail Blazers to their first NBA Championship, earning NBA MVP honors, and revitalizing his career with the Boston Celtics to win another championship. Walton's induction into the Hall of Fame celebrated not only his on-court accomplishments but also his impact on the sport as a player who overcame adversity and continued to inspire future generations with his passion and dedication to basketball.
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