Mourning for Late Bill Walton Made Charles Barkley Learn a New Trait About Celtics Legend: “We Were Not Great Friends but…”

After battling cancer for years, NBA legend Bill Walton took his last breath at the age of 71 on May 27. Boasting a historic college run, the former UCLA men’s basketball player became one of the best sixth men in the 80s era. Following his retirement, the 1977 MVP found a new life and fanbase as his prominence grew in sports media. As the world mourns the loss of this basketball gem, his previous games and best moments from his show have once again flooded people’s memories. While remembering the late NBA player, Charles Barkley also recalled a particular trait that the Celtics legend possessed.

Speaking of the Hall of Famer’s game, Barkley recalled that all the old clips and highlights of Walton’s reminded him of his trait to jump really high and dunk on others. Walton and the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Philadelphia 76ers to win their first title in 1977. Barkley said, “I like to say we weren’t great friends, but every time I was around him, I felt like you know, this is a good dude. And you know, people forget man, he was a hell of a basketball player.”

“You know, one thing that I noticed the last few days Oh highlights he’s with the Trail Blazers, and man, that guy could really jump,” Charles Barkley said on the latest episode of SI Media With Jimmy Traina.

‘Sir Charles’ spoke about the instances where Walton confidently dunked on players like Dr. J and George McGinnis. Furthermore, he urged the listeners to look back at the achievements Walton has achieved during his college career with UCLA.

NBA legend Bill Walton’s impeccable college career

After displaying a thunderous performance leading the Helix Charter High School to 49 consecutive wins, the champ went to UCLA where he made history. His prowess in the game helped him amass numerous accolades. Under Coach John Wooden‘s guidance, he led the Bruins to win two back-to-back NCAA titles in 1972 and 1973. He was named the National College Player of the Year in all three years he played for the team. 

The die-hard Grateful Dead fan was well-known for his strong political opinions. His NBA career was equally impressive. He was named the NBA Sixth Man of the Year in the year 1986 when he was playing for the Boston Celtics. He was a 2x NBA Champion and All-Star. 

The saddest part of the 2x NBA All-Star’s career was the numerous foot injuries that slowed down his dominance. His jersey no. 32 is retired by the Portland Trail Blazers. The news of  Walton’s passing was tough for his fans and friends with numerous including NBA Commissioner Adam Silver pouring their condolences on social media. The Celtics legend’s immense love and passion for basketball and brilliance as a broadcaster will forever inspire people.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.