Bill Walton Cancer: Which Specific Disease Did the Celtics and UCLA Legend Lose His Life To?

468 games. That’s all it took Bill Walton to engrave his name in the Hall of Fame in 1993. While his career was riddled with injuries and operations, his biggest regret was not listening to his body. “I didn’t let pain be my guide… I didn’t say, ‘If it hurt a lot, don’t play.'” But even his retirement didn’t mean he was done with basketball. He took up commentary as his post-retirement profession. Walton had to work on his speech impediment (stuttering) to become one of the most recognizable commentators.

Unfortunately, he passed away after his battle with cancer. He was 71 (1952-2024). The league announced the news of his death on behalf of his family.

What type of cancer did Bill Walton have?

In a press communication, the NBA released a statement that read, “May 27, 2024- Two-time NBA champion and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Bill Walton passed away today at the age of 71 following a prolonged battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family.”

Further reports suggest that Bill Walton died of prostate cancer. As per the American Cancer Society, the prostate is below the bladder and is found in males. It is near the seminal vesicle and urethra and cancer of the prostate can be of the following types – small cell carcinoma, other neuroendocrine tumors (including large cell carcinoma), transitional cell carcinoma, and sarcomas. However, it is not yet confirmed which of the following prostate cancers the Hall of Famer suffered from.

In 2019, he was a part of Coaches vs. Cancer- an initiative between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC). Since 1993, this program has borrowed from the personal and professional experiences of coaches to increase cancer awareness and promote healthy living. So this program would include fundraising activities and also advocacy.

Bill Walton is survived by his wife Lori and children Nate, Adam, Chris, and Luke. Luke Walton was a former NBA player and is now an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Following Walton’s demise, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also released a statement. His thoughts and prayers for Walton’s family, friends, and colleagues were also included in the NBA’s press release, which left many in tears.

Remembering Bill Walton

Apart from remembering Walton for his gaming acumen and exceptional center display, Silver also spoke about how Walton was an exceptional human being. “But what I will remember most about him was his zest for life. He was a regular presence at league events — always upbeat, smiling ear to ear and looking to share his wisdom and warmth. I treasured our close friendship, envied his boundless energy and admired the time he took with every person he encountered.”

As for his achievements on the court, Walton plied his trade for the Trail Blazers, Clippers, and Celtics. Walton won the championship twice, 9 years apart- 1977 and 1986. This proved that he was a dominant player for years. Additionally, he bagged the Finals MVP award in 1978.

For his contributions, the Trail Blazers retired his jersey no. 32. His college team, the UCLA Bruins, gave the much-needed reverence to his jersey no. 32. He was the NCAA champion twice in a row in 1972 and 73 with the Bruins. He also clinched the College Basketball Player of the Year award thrice consecutively from 1972 to 74. Therefore, words falter when describing his successful basketball career.

Walton then took on a broadcasting career. He worked for several media houses, including ESPN and CBS. He included a lot of catchphrases and hyperboles in his pieces, which also became his trademark style. But all this didn’t come easy. “In life, being so self-conscious, red hair, big nose, freckles and goofy, nerdy-looking face and can’t talk at all. I was incredibly shy and never said a word,” he told The Oregonian newspaper back in 2017. “Then, when I was 28, I learned how to speak. It’s become my greatest accomplishment of my life and everybody else’s biggest nightmare.”

Fans will miss his tie-dyed T-shirts and exciting commentary. RIP.

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.