The hoops community witnessed a series of obituaries in the last few months. Following the tragic passing of Ernie Johnson’s mother, legendary commentator Billy Packer, and the loyal Indiana Pacers crew member David Benner, another legend passed away. The New York Knicks fans and NBA stars Carmelo Anthony, Patrick Beverley, and other notable celebrities mourned the legends’ loss. Moreover, fans shared video clips of the iconic performances of the legend as a mark of respect.
NBA Hall of Famer Willis Reed (80) passed away on Tuesday. The Knicks legend’s former teammate Bill Bradley confirmed his passing to the press. The 2x NBA Champion battled congestive heart issues over the last few months. Notably, Reed couldn’t attend the 50th anniversary of the Knicks’ 1972-73 championship celebration last month due to illness. Despite playing in the era of Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain, Reed had etched a forever spot in NBA history with his toughness.
Carmelo Anthony, Pat Bev, and other stars offered their condolences
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The sudden passing of Willis Reed came as a shocker for NBA fans. Several Hollywood stars also joined in to share their condolence on the loss. Actor/comedian Michael Rapaport took to his Twitter and shared the video of the iconic game from 1970 along with an emotional message. He wrote, “The Captain Willis Reed has passed!!!! Sad sad day in NYC for the man who brought the guts and toughness to the @nyknicks”
The Captain Willis Reed has passed!!!! Sad sad day in NYC for the man who brought the guts and toughness to the @nyknicks pic.twitter.com/ZfNffemIP0
— MichaelRapaport (@MichaelRapaport) March 21, 2023
Rest in Power, Captain pic.twitter.com/ndPWBwi644
— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) March 21, 2023
Former Knicks star Carmelo Anthony also shared a picture with the legend on his Twitter and wrote, “Rest in power, Captain.”
View this post on Instagram
Additionally, Bulls star Patrick Beverley and actress Emily Austin expressed their condolences in the comments of Shams Charania’s Instagram post. While Beverley prayed for the Knicks legend, Austin shared the broken hearts emoji.
When it comes to Willis Reed, the legend’s iconic performance from Game 7 of the 1970 NBA finals comes to the fans’ minds. Reed tore his right tensor muscle days before the final game. When the team required its captain for the decider, he walked into the arena limping. Eventually, the Knicks won the 1970 NBA Championship.
Knicks fans mourn the sad demise of franchise hero
Thousands of fans swarmed the comments sections of various social media posts, remembering the legend to convey their regards. Following are some reactions from NBA fans.
A legend has left the building..
— Trib Stax (@SirStax) March 21, 2023
There's never been another lineup like that one. It was iconic!
— Dolores Pastore: "DoloP" — "The Porch Pundit" (@DoloresPastor3) March 21, 2023
“A GRAMBLING Legend”
“RIP Willis, we dont forget that night game seven”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
100% Solid! No one moved him around. ✅🏆
— MoonBeam2025 (@beam2025) March 21, 2023
Willis Reed’s true grit and the potential to play through injury gained him a huge fan following and an unshakable place in NBA history.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story – Magic Johnson Drops The Hammer On Kareem Abdul-Jabbar As LeBron James Surpassed the Iconic NBA Scoring Record
What is your favorite memory of the New York Knicks legend Willis Reed? Let us know in the comments below.