In the 1975-76 NBA season, an undrafted player led the league in both assists and steals – a rare feat that spotlighted his exceptional skills. Donald ‘Slick’ Watts not only dominated the stats but also captured fans’ hearts with his distinctive shaved head and charismatic presence. But what circumstances led to Watts adopting his trademark look, earning him the nickname ‘Slick’?

Seattle basketball fans didn’t just cheer for Donald Watts; they embraced him wholeheartedly. His blue-collar work ethic and flashy style were the perfect mix for a city that loves an underdog story. With every steal, every behind-the-back pass, and every fast break, he built a connection with the fans that went far beyond basketball. Watts wasn’t just playing for a paycheck, he was playing for the love of the game, and it showed in every move he made on the court resonating with the fans.

The Birth of “Slick” and the Ultimate Underdog Story of Donald Watts

First things first, why “Slick“? Simple. Watts showed up with a clean-shaven dome to the hardwood court. Add to that his flashy passing, quick hands-on defense, and effortless ability to zip through defenders, and “Slick” just fit perfectly. He wasn’t just fast, he was slippery, almost elusive. One minute, he was in front of you, the next, he had stolen the ball and was halfway down the court.

But Donald Watts wasn’t one of those highly recruited, first-round draft picks who had NBA scouts drooling over his highlight reels. In fact, he wasn’t drafted at all. After playing at Xavier University of Louisiana, he found himself looking for any way to get into the league. Enter Bill Russell,  who saw something in the scrappy guard and gave him a shot with the Seattle SuperSonics.

Watts seized his chance and made sure no one forgot his name. In the 1975-76 season, he led the entire league in both assists and steals—yep, the guy no one drafted was suddenly the best in the NBA at setting up teammates and swiping possessions. Talk about proving people wrong.

If Seattle had a basketball sweetheart in the ‘70s, it was Donald Slick Watts. The fans loved him, and how could they not? The bald head. The iconic headband. The underdog mentality. The hustle. But it wasn’t just his on-court flair that made him a city favorite. Watts made it a point to connect with the community. He visited schools, worked with kids, and genuinely embraced being a part of Seattle. Even long after his playing days were over, he stayed involved, proving he was more than just a basketball player he was a Seattle legend, his passing is tragic saddening every basketball fan around the world.

In an era of big-name stars, Donald Watts carved out his own place in basketball history. No flashy draft day hype, no superstar expectations, just pure hustle, heart, and a whole lot of style. Seattle will never forget their bald-headed, pass-slinging, headband-rocking legend.

Seattle will never forget Donald ‘Slick’ Watts. The man who played like he had nothing to lose and won the hearts of everyone who watched him. His story isn’t just history. It’s an inspiration to many as the hundreds of tributes keep pouring in.