Bill Walton was truly one of a kind, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.
As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the center position.
But what I will remember most about him was his zest for life.
Bill WaltonGetty Images
He also won three consecutive national college player of the year awards from 1972-1974.
He went on to win another NBC title in 1986 with the Boston Celtics.
He also played for the San Diego and eventually LA Clippers.
He earned an Emmy Award for his work in 1991.
He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.
He was named one of the top 50 sports broadcasters of all-time by the American Sportscasters Association in 2009.
Former President Barack Obama is among those who paid tribute to Walton.
He was also a wonderful spirit full of curiosity, humor and kindness.
We are poorer for his passing, and Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to his family.
He was also a wonderful spirit full of curiosity, humor and kindness.
We are poorer for his passing, and Michelle and I send our deepest…
