Tragedy strikes the basketball world! Well, the Seattle SuperSonics were one of the most beloved franchises in the NBA. But despite their rich history, they made it to the mountaintop just once. In 1979. And it was Gus Williams who led them to their maiden championship. Unfortunately, the legendary Sonics guard has reportedly passed away at 71, leaving the hoops world devastated.

As per his brother, David Williams, Gus’ body just broke down in the last four days. He had been living in a care facility in Baltimore amid his declining health. Fortunately, he was surrounded by family during his final moments as his daughter flew in to be with him.

Obviously, fans are left heartbroken by the tragic news of Williams’ passing, and the internet is flooded with condolences and “Rest in Peace” messages for the Sonics legend. That goes to show the kind of impact he had on the basketball community.

Meanwhile, the latest reports revealed that Gus’ funeral will happen in his hometown of Mt. Vernon. Although the exact cause of his sudden passing has not been disclosed, Williams suffered a significant stroke five years ago, which brought in the need for assisted care. Surprisingly, the stroke also led to the creation of the Sonics Legends Fund, which gives financial aid to former players.

Yes, the initiative began after insurance failed to cover Gus’ medical expenses following his major health setback. His longtime friend Sandy Gregory, who worked for the Seahawks and came up with the idea of using player fines as funds for retired and older players, helped create a similar fund for Sonics’ legends, hoping to assist Gus and other former players when in need. Sure enough, the fund helped Gus get quality care until the time of his passing. Moreover, everyone will remember the legacy he has left behind.

Fans mourn 70s “Best NBA Player” Gus Williams’ tragic passing

Apart from the countless RIP messages, the internet was also bombarded with fond memories of Gus, as comments like “Gus was a pleasure to watch back in the day” and “Was a big Gus Williams fan back in the 1970s” began flooding in.

Although Gus Williams was a second-round pick, he became an instant sensation when he started his career with the Warriors. And the franchise’s then GM Dick Vertlieb even had high praise for him after recognizing his talent. “We got awfully lucky getting him in the second round… Gus Williams is a bird. He has to fly. You can’t keep him under wraps… He should always consider himself a first-round choice.”

Soon after, Gus was nicknamed ‘The Wizard’ for his lightning-fast speed and insane athleticism. One fan even wrote in his memory, “The Wizard was who I wanted to play like RIP.” And one even deemed him the “Best NBA player in the late 1970’s.”

Well, Gus did lead his team to a championship in only his fourth season. And he was way ahead of his time, a quick guard dominating in the big man era. So, calling him the best player of the time is not a far-fetched notion.

“He was lightning quick and fast, both, and he was a one-man fast break. He got the ball and he weaved through traffic. He was just so fast. No one ever caught him,” his former teammate Wally Walker said.

One of Gus Williams’ last known public appearances in Seattle came way back in 2017. He was present for the WNBA All-Star Game in KeyArena, followed by 2019- when the Mariners honored SuperSonics’ legacy- 40 years (June 1) since winning the coveted NBA title.

The NBA lost a legendary player and, more importantly, an amazing human being today, but his legacy will live on forever. What is your fondest memory of Gus Williams?