“Rest In Peace”: Isiah Thomas Mourns NBA Rival Gus Williams by Reliving 43-Year-Old Bond

“It was about winning and having a good time.” Gus Williams, aka The Wizard certainly left his mark on the basketball world. Williams, who led the Seattle Supersonics to their first championship in 1979, passed away on January 15. His legendary comeback in the 1981-82 season, where he finished seventh in scoring, remains exceptional to this day. The 2x NBA All-Star’s death has left everyone grieving. Remembering him, former NBA player Isiah Thomas took to social media to reflect on those days.

The two shared not just intense battles but also were a part of one of the best guard combos in NBA history. Williams made appearances in the 1981-82 and 1982-83 NBA All-Stars. And Thomas was alongside him on the ride. With him passing on, Zeke posted a nostalgic picture of him and the late legend from this event on his Instagram handle.

The legend may have retired years ago from the NBA, but he still lives on in the hearts of those who remember his contributions. “Rest in Peace, Gus Williams @nba #legend #champion,” Thomas wrote.

At the time of his passing, the legend was living in a care facility in Baltimore. The cause of his death is unknown, but he was battling several health issues and his condition might have worsened after he suffered a stroke in 2020.

Selected in the second round of the 1975 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors, Williams slowly built his place in the league. Averaging 11.7 points and 3.2 assists, he was also the runner-up to Alvan Adams for the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 1976. After playing for the Warriors until 1977, he joined the SuperSonics.

“We’re deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Supersonics great Gus “The Wizard” Williams. Forever a legend + champion,” the X page of Seattle Supersonics wrote. The passing of the 6-foot-2 guard was a shock to many, who took to social media to send their condolences and reflect on his career. 

Byron Scott and more pour in a heartwarming message for Gus Williams

After joining the Supersonics, he was averaging 18.1 points, which kept improving. In the playoffs of their championship year, he hit 26.7 points per game. His connection with Seattle remained strong. The IG page of NBA Alumni wrote, “The basketball community has lost a Legend. Our hearts are with the family, friends and fans of Gus Williams. #LegendsForever.”

Byron Scott commented on the post and wrote, “The wizard. Gus was a great player but an even better person. You will be missed my brother. My condolences to the Williams family. Blessing to you all.” While former NBA player Metta World Peace added two heart emojis, Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie added a prayer emoji in the comment section.

The jersey No. 1 that Williams wore was retired by the Seattle SuperSonics. He ended his career in 1987 after his stint with the Atlanta Hawks. Back in 2017, he was spotted at the WNBA All-Star Game at KeyArena in Seattle. His jersey No. 10 which he wore for the USC Trojans was retired. All the outpouring of love and homage for him is a reminder that his game and legacy will never be forgotten.