Celtics, Pacers unite for Bill Walton tribute before crucial NBA Playoffs Game 4
A fitting way to remember him.
Legends of the game always leave an impact to the new generation of stars. When Bill Walton’s passing was made to the public, everyone was heartbroken and could not really fathom how the game would be without him. A lot of letters and farewells were made to the UCLA and Portland Trail Blazers legend. Even the Rick Carlisle-led Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics had to give their flowers to the late star before their NBA Playoffs clash started.
Gainbridge Fieldhouse had a moment of silence before the Pacers vs. Celtics clash. It was to honor the late Bill Walton after he had died of cancer at the age of 71.
An honor and a moment of silence were held for Bill Walton in Indiana ahead of Game 4 of the Celtics-Pacers 🙌 (via @espn)
He will always be remembered for his great contributions to basketball. It started when he led UCLA to two big seasons where they went undefeated and won the national championship. He then made the transition to the NBA. Here, he made sure that his impact was felt immediately. Bill Walton won the 1977 NBA championship with the Trail Blazers. Unfortunately, foot injuries and other ailments derailed his career.
His contributions to the Pacers and Celtics
© Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
For the Pacers, it was a little bit more personal to Rick Carlisle. The legendary big man apparently helped the head honcho when he was just dating his wife, via Cassidy Hubbarth of ESPN.
“Bill really likes our team, liked the way we played. I have him to thank, probably also for me being married to my wife Donna [Nobile],” Rick Carlisle said before their Game 4 NBA Playoffs clash.
Whether it was on the basketball court or outside of it, Walton will always be a legend. His indelible mark is only as big as the heart he showed and the compassion he exhibited to the people around him. Truly, no other big man can replicate his impact.
Jay is a sports writer for ClutchPoints, with expertise in covering the NBA, NFL, MLB, Tennis, and Formula 1. He is a lifelong motorsports and tennis fan. Jay’s need for speed may no longer be on the grid or courts but has stayed with him through writing.
