He played 20 minutes in his last game for UCLA and Coach Wooden. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. It is a stain and stigma on my soul that is indelible. Center [50][46], In the 1977 postseason, Walton led #3 seed Portland to series victories over the Chicago Bulls with Artis Gilmore (21) and the Denver Nuggets with Dan Issel (42). Freshmen were prohibited by the NCAA from playing varsity at the time. [61], In the Celtics' 41 series win over the Atlanta Hawks with Dominique Wilkins in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, Walton averaged 8.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 13 minutes. Wooden would become a lifetime mentor to Walton. Walton signed with the Trail Blazers. [83], While broadcasting a game between the Oregon Ducks and USC Trojans, Walton talked about a speech Bob Dylan gave at MusiCares, and ESPN had prepared graphics about Dylan's career highlights. We have tools and resources that can help you use sports data. ", Florida State coach Hugh Durham: "If you run against them, you might catch Walton away from the basket but if you slow down, he'll be there and gobble everything up. He was a dynamic big moment guy, and I just wish I could have risen to the occasion. I found a safe place in life in basketball. "[13], Hall of Fame Coach Denny Crum was then an assistant coach at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), under John Wooden, sent to watch Walton play. Center Bill Walton was an absolute monster during his three-year stretch at UCLA in the '70s. Staying relatively healthy, Walton became an integral component of an already talented Celtics team and, in a reserve role, helped Boston win the NBA title in 1986. Walton led the league in blocked shots and rebounding, was named to the NBA all-defensive team, and was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 1977 play-offs. Or, as Walton himself would call it, "The Conference of Champions." [38], In the 1974 Final Four, UCLA's record seven consecutive national titles was broken. [117], Walton, who has a service dog, wrote the foreword to the 2015 book Unconditional Honor: Wounded Warriors and their Dogs by author Cathy Scott. ", Memphis State coach Murray Bartow, prior to the 1973 national championship game: "Anyone who runs with UCLA is going to lose. Walton is a noted fan of the Grateful Dead, as a self-described "Deadhead", and often mentions them in his broadcasts. "Yes", said Gloria Walton, "then when the referee wasn't looking, Bruce would give the player an elbow and let him know that the skinny guy was his kid brother. Bill Walton Playoffs Game Log. Andy Wittry has written for Stadium, SI.com, Sporting News, the Indianapolis Star, Louisville Courier-Journal and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. [16] His 25.0 rebounds per game in a season ranks No. Bill Walton attended Helix in La Mesa, California and UCLA. Question, Comment, Feedback, or Correction? He left that to David Thompson, whose N.C. State Wolfpack downed Walton in the 1974 NCAA championship, or Julius. And I was going to go until I couldn't go anymore. Walton was named the 1972 NCAA basketball tournament Most Outstanding Player. 3x NATIONAL COLLEGE PLAYER OF THE YEAR. [108] He attended more than 850[109] Grateful Dead concerts, including traveling with the band to Egypt for its famous 1978 performance before the Pyramids (joining the band on drums),[110] and quotes Grateful Dead lyrics in TV and radio interviews. But as soon as I got on the court I was fine. Also Read: Bill Walton's Top Moments during Warriors-Blazers Match. Walton wrote the memoir Back from the Dead (2016). "[36], In 2009, Walton underwent an eight-hour spinal-fusion surgery. [14], "I had no problem with him during the season", Wooden said of Walton's college days. Walton was injured again in the 198687 regular season, but returned in time for the 1987 playoffs. "Whenever there was a big moment for little Luke, big Luke would show up unannounced to make sure it all turned out right. Nate was on the ballot for the 2003 California Recall election, receiving 1,697 votes. Updates? In a pre-season meeting with his new coach, Walton had advised Ramsay, "Coach, don't assume we know anything. I was a very shy, reserved player and a very shy, reserved person. Thank you people of New England. One more chance to be part of something special, to be part of the team, to be with the guys one more time. [citation needed], Said Walton of Coach Wooden: "I was John Wooden's easiest recruit. BILL WALTON: College basketball stats, best moments and quotes. Our reasoning for presenting offensive logos. Career Stats. "Coach Wooden never talked about winning and losing, but rather about the effort to win. He did all that in just 33 minutes, too. Join our linker program. Walton, who missed a 12-foot shot off an inbounds pass to win the game as time expired, finished with 24 points and nine rebounds. And when you're in that position, it's the worst feeling in the world. However, he returned to broadcasting the following year. [25][26], UCLA again finished 300 overall and 140 in the Pac-8 conference in 197273. Learn more and register. Walton averaged 8.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 2.2 blocks in 19 minutes, in helping the Celtics win the championship. [40], Walton left UCLA to begin a new life in professional basketball and kept a lifetime friendship with Coach Wooden. Before the injuries hampered his professional career, Bill Walton dominated college basketball. Bill Walton averaged 13.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. [11], On September 6, 1985, Walton was traded by the Los Angeles Clippers to the Boston Celtics for Cedric Maxwell and a 1986 1st round draft pick (Arvydas Sabonis was later selected). College: Arizona High School: University in San Diego, California Recruiting Rank: 1998 (71) Draft: Los Angeles Lakers, 2nd round (3rd pick, 32nd overall), 2003 NBA Draft All logos are the trademark & property of their owners and not Sports Reference LLC. Watch our How-To Videos to Become a Stathead, Subscribe to Stathead and get access to more data than you can imagine. [70][71] Some saw it as a political statement given Waltons opposition to the Vietnam War, but the most likely reason for his decision was his bad experience at the 1970 world championships. After appearing in just 14 games in his first year with San Diego, Walton sat out the entire 198081 and 198182 seasons because of more foot problems. UCLA's 1971-72 squad quickly became nicknamed "Walton's Gang," in honor of the 6-11 sophomore. [28][27], In the 1973 Final Four, the Bruins won the national semifinal 7059 over Indiana and Hall of Fame coach Bob Knight. On the black day in 1974 against North Carolina State, he produced 29 . Throughout his career, nagging injuries continually slowed Walton. He averaged 18.6 points, 14.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 3.2 blocks and Portland finished 4933. But, he played in only six games and did not start any of them. Walton typically was paired with Steve "Snapper" Jones for national NBA games because he and Jones had a point-counterpoint banter during games. 3 [deleted] 10 yr. ago [22], Walton is a fan of the Grateful Dead, Allman Brothers Band, Neil Young, Phish, and Bob Dylan. "He went on to play for the Dallas Cowboys. We have tools and resources that can help you use sports data. In 1971-72, the Walton Gang went 30-0 and had only two games settled by single digits. Bill Walton was one of the greatest college basketball players of all time. Right, Born: It's become my greatest accomplishment of my life and everybody else's biggest nightmare."[79]. Rocket players learned that to get into the Helix gym they could call the teenage Walton, who had his own gym key. "I came back and told Coach Wooden that this Walton kid was the best high school player I'd ever seen", Crum recalled. Born: March 28, 1980 in San Diego, California us Relatives: Father Bill Walton. Give me the phone!' Bill Walton, a three-time National Player of the Year and a key member in UCLA's dynasty under John Wooden, was one of the greatest men's college basketball players ever. ", Wooden, after Walton's 44-point performance in the national championship: "For Bill, I believe this was the only time this season I've seen him so emotionally ready to play. In addition, during his first two years, Walton badly sprained an ankle, broke his left wrist twice, dislocated two toes, dislocated two fingers, broke a toe and injured his leg in a jeep accident. 60 games): 15.7 rebounds per game, UCLA-record 48 games with at least 15 points and 15 rebounds, First, tied for second and eighth on UCLA's single-season rebounds per game list: 16.9 rpg, 15.5 rpg, 14.7 rpg, Second all-time in field goal percentage in two games at a Final Four: 82.4% (1973), Tied for second all-time in two games at a Final Four: 41 (1972), Tied for second, tied for fourth all-time in UCLA history in single-game rebounds: 27 (twice), 24 (three times), Second in UCLA history in career field goal percentage: 65.1%, Second in UCLA history in career double-doubles: 72 double-doubles, Second in UCLA history in 20-rebound games: 19 games, Tied for third all-time in field goals in two games at a Final Four: 28 (173), Third in UCLA history in career scoring average (min. "Helix is where it all began. When the Walton children were in junior high and high school, Mr. Walton formed an informal family band: Bruce and Bill played trombone or baritone, Andy played the saxophone, and Cathy played the flute. A disgrace to the game of basketball, a disgrace to sport. [28][30][14][31], Walton was hurt and left the game for the final time, with UCLA leading, 7562 and just under three minutes remaining. Javascript is required for the selection of a player. Omissions? The Bruins averaged winning by over 20 points, averaging 81.3 points to their opponents' 60.1. William T. "Bill" Walton. "[72], In the men's basketball final, the United States controversially lost to the Soviet Union 5150, finishing in second place. I'll never be able to wash that off, and I carry it with me forever. Use without license or authorization is expressly prohibited. [87], In 2001, Walton received an Emmy Award for "Best Live Sports Television Broadcast" and in 2018 was the recipient of the CoSIDA Dick Enberg Award. A famous free spirit, he was known for his social activism, outspoken opinions, and devotion to the Grateful Dead rock band. "Twenty minutes too much", he said. Here's everything you need to know about Walton's time with the Bruins. I never spoke to anybody. He's a nationally known face, a hipster wild man, but now he's also this: We worked to push him out farther. Walton set the record for most points in an NCAA championship game, which still stands, and was the tournament's most outstanding player. He played college basketball for coach John Wooden and the UCLA Bruins, winning three consecutive national college player of the year awards (19721974), while leading UCLA to NCAA championships in 1972 and 1973 and an 88-game winning streak. I thought everybody had the same thing: great parents, great schools, great neighborhoods, great colleges, great coaches. Perhaps, I've never had a better team when you consider both offense and defense. "[65], "It wasn't important to me because I had no say in the personnel decisions, but what I was impressed with was Bill Walton's character", Parish said of Walton joining the Celtics. They were basketball teammates in high school. Wow. We already had a pretty good team, and I think adding him and (Jerry) Sichting really helped us. William Theodore Walton III Twitter: BillWalton (Big Red, Grateful Red, Red Baron, Redwood, Chief) Position: Center Shoots: Right 6-11, 210lb (211cm, 95kg) . Bill Walton is a playable character in the video games NBA Street Vol. One new team enters after the opening weekend. Or write about sports? He says, 'Walton, can you play?' We had a bitter argument over that, and I lost that argument, too", said Walton, who took only three shots as UCLA had a 7861 win. His efforts were rewarded with the NBAs Sixth Man Award for the 198586 season. Bill Walton is a 6-11 junior center from Helix, Calif. who is the best college basketball player ever. He then limped off the floor, receiving an ovation from the 19,301 fans. He passes. I'm very proud of this team. The Portland Trail Blazers selected Walton with the first pick in the first round of the 1974 National Basketball Association (NBA) draft. It's my greatest failure as a professional in my entire life, I could not get the job done in my hometown. Helix won the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Championship in both 1969 and 1970, finishing 292 in 196869 and 330 in 196970. Walton played in his only NBA All-Star Game in 1978 and was named to both the NBA's First All-Defensive Team and the All-NBA First Team. Walton led UCLA in scoring, rebounding and field goal percentage for three consecutive years: No sophomore, junior or senior in UCLA history has averaged more rebounds per game, respectively, than when Walton was a sophomore, junior and senior. In addition to making the All-NBA first team and the All-NBA defensive team, Walton was honoured as the play-off MVP for the second consecutive year even though the Trail Blazers failed to repeat as champions. What a dream come true. Bruce played in Super Bowl X, making Bill and Bruce the only brothers to play in the Super Bowl and NBA Finals. "We were able to go right through the press." After 19 years working in broadcasting, he left ESPN in November 2009, as the result of back problems, which dated back to an injury he suffered in college at UCLA. "[73], Coach Jack Ramsay, in 2010, called Walton the best Portland Trail Blazer, "hands down no question", Ramsay said. Walton recalled Elvin Hayes calling and telling his mother, "Tell Billy, Big E is calling and we need him to open the gym tonight. "So the things he taught us made no sense to us. That's the day the oft-injured Hall of Famer, whose career had . Join our linker program. He is a graduate of Indiana University. He earned an Emmy Award in 1991. [99][100], Nate Walton played basketball at Princeton. Playing with four personal fouls, Walton fell hard to the floor on a play and injured his left knee and ankle. Bill Walton was a great college player, maybe the best ever. Watch our How-To Videos to Become a Stathead, Subscribe to Stathead and get access to more data than you can imagine. Our reasoning for presenting offensive logos. Following his retirement, he became an outspoken analyst on NBA television broadcasts. I've had 37 (38 now) orthopedic operations. I regret the circumstances in which I left the Portland Trail Blazers family. They followed American basketball closely and they knew that no Walton was going to be a big deal." Bill Walton probably had one of the best games anybody ever had in the history of college basketball."[33]. inLa Mesa,California [21], After Walton initially refused to cut his hair as an incoming freshman, Coach Wooden told Walton "we'll miss you." [46][47], In 197576, Walton averaged 16.1 points, 13.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.6 blocks in 51 games as Portland, with rookies Bob Gross and Lionel Hollins, finished 3745. I lived most of my life by myself. Bird said that if Walton felt healthy enough to play that it was good enough for him, as opposed to Lakers GM Jerry West, who was hedging his interest in Walton pending a doctor's report. "[12], On Clippers owner Donald Sterling, Walton commented, "The checks bounced higher than the basketballs when Donald Sterling took over. I don't think anyone can get in a run-and-shoot contest with them and win not us, not the Boston Celtics, not anyone. After several players on the Celtics said they liked the idea of having Walton as a teammate backing up Robert Parish and Kevin McHale, Red Auerbach made the deal happen. [1][2], Walton's early career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) was very successful, winning the 1978 NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) and an NBA championship with the Portland Trail Blazers, for which he was also named Finals MVP. "He thought enough of me to make sure I was comfortable with him being on the team. I had no idea what we had at UCLA. Bill Walton was drafted by Portland Trail Blazers, 1st round (1st pick, 1st overall), 1974 NBA Draft. In a June 8, 2010, interview on The Dan Patrick Show, Walton admitted to contemplating suicide for a time due to the constant pain resulting from injuries sustained during his NBA career. Walton was inducted into the National High School Sports Hall of Fame in 1997. North Carolina State defeated the Bruins 8077 in double overtime in the NCAA semi-finals. After the game, famous basketball journalist Dick Weiss of the Courier-Post (Camden, N.J.) wrote, "How could any team lose with Bill Walton on its roster? Everything that Coach Wooden told us eventually came true. The varsity UCLA team, led by seniors Sidney Wicks, Curtis Rowe, and Steve Patterson defeated Villanova in the 1971 NCAA Championship Game for UCLA's 5th consecutive NCAA title. Bill Walton was inducted to the Hall of Fame as a Player in 1993 (Full List) Bill Walton was one of the greatest college basketball players in history. His listed adult playing height was 6ft 11in (2.11m); it has been reported that Walton is actually taller (7ft 2in (2.18m) or more), but does not like being categorized as a seven-footer. "[11], In Walton's senior year, UCLA's 88-game winning streak ended with a 7170 loss at Notre Dame on January 19, 1974. [77][78], Walton said about his speech issues and subsequent career, "I'm a stutterer. On March 26, 1973, in St. Louis, Bill Walton scored and scored and scored and scored. [37], In the 25 team 1974 NCAA tournament, UCLA defeated Dayton 111100, in a game where Walton had 27 points and 19 rebounds. 2 min read. Twitter: When UCLA led Memphis State 35-30, Walton wasn't that far behind the Tigers with his individual point total of 20. [citation needed] "There were so many problems", Walton said of the losses. Coach Nash played Bill and Bruce Walton together in the paint. The views on this page do not necessarily reflect the views of the NCAA or its member institutions. Nonetheless, he was one of the greatest college basketball players in history. "[12], Walton overcame all obstacles and led Helix to 49 consecutive victories in his two varsity seasons. To not be able to play was a crushing blow to him. Walton continued to display his dominance during the 197778 campaign, ultimately winning the NBAs MVP award after tallying 18.9 points, 13.2 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 2.2 blocks per game that season. Bill Walton, byname of William Theodore Walton III, (born November 5, 1952, La Mesa, California, U.S.), American collegiate and professional basketball player who is considered one of the best all-around post players in the sports history. [23], In the 25-team 1972 NCAA tournament, UCLA defeated Weber State 9058. Michael Jordan is NOT the G.O.A.T of college hoops -- so says Bill Walton, who tells TMZ Sports that honor belongs to Kareem! Portland, concerned that Walton was injury-prone, traded him to the San Diego Clippers after the 197879 season. [93][94] Luke was the head coach of the Lakers (20162019), after two years as an assistant for the Golden State Warriors. The Clippers never finished near .500 or made the playoffs in his tenure with the franchise. When you're right there and it's there for you and the whole world is watching, and it's recorded as history that can never be changed, that is a terribly heavy burden. "[12], "We had the best gym in San Diego and all the Rockets players wanted to go there", Walton reflected. Walton won 1 MVP Award, was selected to play in 2 All-Star Games, and was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1993. UCLA next defeated San Francisco 8360 in the Western Regional Final to reach the Final Four. Walton spent the 198788 season on the Celtics' injured list. He rung up 2,402 points over his collegiate career and was selected as an All-American three times. In 2018, Walton received the CoSIDA Dick Enberg Award. His older brother Bruce played football at UCLA, enrolling a year ahead of Bill. The vitals for Bill Walton School: UCLA Position: Center Height: 6-11 Weight: 210 pounds Years active: 1971-74 NCAA tournament record: 11-1 College averages: 20.3 points per game, 15.7. [25][26][23], Walton's political personality was alive in his collegiate years on the UCLA campus. Copyright 2000-2023 Sports Reference LLC. Walton reportedly agreed to a seven-year, $7 million contract. Bill Walton won the following awards and honors: NAISMITH AWARDS: Player of the Year | Coach of the Year | Defensive Player of the Year, Louisville coach Denny Crum: "Bill Walton is just amazing. He has hosted several podcasts and satellite radio programs featuring the music of the Grateful Dead. 1977 NBA Finals MVP. "[citation needed], Walton played high school basketball at Helix High School in La Mesa alongside his brother Bruce, who was one year older at 6ft 6in (1.98m) and 250 pounds (113kg). [citation needed] Walton has said repeatedly in his broadcasts that he is just as much to blame for taking the medication as the doctor was for giving it to him. Walton received the NBA Retired Players Association Humanitarian Award in 2002. Bill Walton led the Bruins to two consecutive 300 seasons and the NCAA men's basketball record 88-game winning streak. [57][58][11], During the off-season, Walton demanded to be traded, citing unethical and incompetent treatment of his and other players' injuries by the Blazers' front office. He had 19 points and 11 rebounds against Long Beach State. The Associated Press noted that Walton was double-teamed for most of the game, too. Walton averaged 29 points and 25 rebounds, as Helix finished 330 in his senior season. [18], "It was a dream come true to be a part of a special team", Walton said. William Theodore Walton III (born November 5, 1952) is an American television sportscaster and former professional basketball player. And to me it was frustrating because I finally had a great team and a great player and it was all coming apart. He originally joined ESPN in 2002 as a lead analyst for ESPN and ABC's NBA coverage. Portland lost the series to Seattle in six games. UCLA was 864 in Walton's three seasons. Walton would takes passes that weren't necessarily intended to be alley-oops and he score an alley-oop layup off of them. This was a team achievement and was built around Walton but we'd be foolish not to go to him. [69], Walton was selected to the 1972 U.S. Olympic basketball team, but declined to participate. Their comparative career stats: WALTON 468 Games averaging 13.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.2 blocks on 52.1% shooting from the field. [46], At age 17, just out of high school, in the summer of 1970, Walton was selected to represent USA Basketball at the 1970 FIBA World Championship. They defeated Long Beach State and coach Jerry Tarkanian in the Western Regional final 7357 to reach the Final Four. Bill followed Bruce in attending UCLA. That's the best team I've ever been on, no question about that. He was a good but injury-prone pro. "I wish we had NBA basketball here, and we don't because of me. Walton also received the USBWA College Player of the Year and Naismith College Player of the Year as the top college basketball player in 1972, 1973, and 1974. Walton averaged 7.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.2 blocks in 19 minutes, and finished with a career-high 56.2 field goal percentage. From 1972-74, Bill Walton led UCLA to an 86-4 record and two national titles. [84], While broadcasting a WashingtonOregon January 2019 game with Dave Pasch, Walton mentioned he had appeared in the motion picture Ghostbusters. Look at his feet. To fellow Deadheads, Walton is fondly known as "Grateful Red" and the "Big Red Deadhead" and "World's Tallest Deadhead". [11], As a rookie in 197475, Walton averaged a double-double 12.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2.7 blocks in 35 games. [88][89], Walton resides in his hometown of San Diego with his wife Lori (m. 1991). Thank you Boston Celtics. ", UCLA coach John Wooden: "There have only been two men I have coached that could have played on the varsity in their freshman years Lew Alcindor and Bill Walton. "[10], While Walton was in high school in 1967, the NBA expansion San Diego Rockets came to town. [104], Walton's sister Cathy was an outstanding youth swimmer and played some basketball at the University of California. His NBA years : from 1975 to 1987 Bill Walton NBA Stats Summary : He is big and strong and wirey. He could not walk to the hospital. Walton was a consensus All-American alongside Ernie DiGregorio of Providence, Ed Ratleff of Long Beach State, David Thompson of North Carolina State, and Kermit Washington of American. Look at this. He is also mentioned by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in the 1980 comedy Airplane! Walton called the game the most disappointing outcome of his entire basketball career, as UCLA had a 5-point lead late in regulation and a 7-point lead in the 2nd overtime, before NC State with David Thompson rallied to win, 8077. BillWalton, (Big Red, Grateful Red, Red Baron, Redwood, Chief), Position: ("Tell your old man to drag Walton and Lanier up and down the court for 48 minutes! That's the timelessness of pain and suffering; the agonizing, the reflection and the endless questioning of yourself. I ground my body up. That's why I have the utmost respect for Bill Walton and that's the main reason why he was my inductee into the Hall of Fame. All rights reserved. It's not like he attempted 22 dunks, and still, he missed only once all game. I stuttered horrendously, couldn't speak at all. John Wooden. [11], After the 198485 campaign, Walton called on two of the league's premier teams, the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. In July 2012, ESPN and the Pac-12 Network announced that Walton would return to full-time broadcasting as a game analyst for Pac-12 conference basketball coverage. He averaged 17.3 points, 12.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 4.3 blocks in the first round series against the Bulls. But I'm all better now. Or write about sports? Viewed by many as the best-passing big man of all time, Walton was honoured as one of the NBAs 50 all-time greatest players in 1996. ", Bartow, after the 1973 national championship game: "Walton Walton Walton We couldn't contain Walton. [4][5][6], Walton's father Ted was a music teacher and social worker and his mother Gloria, a librarian. There were running jump hooks and short jumpers off the glass. [11][46], Walton overcame a stuttering problem at age 28 with the help of Hall of Fame broadcaster Marty Glickman, after a lengthy conversation between the two at an event. Center Bill Walton played 10 seasons for 3 teams. The Terre Haute Tribune noted that Walton "doesn't shoot all over the place." Elvin and I are still close friends. In fact, the number of jumpers he made outside of the lane might be the most impressive part of his 44-point, 95-percent shooting performance. He missed three games. us, High School: After his retirement as a player, Walton has become a successful and controversial basketball color commentator. We couldn't get him out. [106], Walton maintained a close lifetime friendship with Coach John Wooden, visiting him often. And Red says, 'Shut up. But to win, we also felt we had to control Walton. Bill Walton College Stats, School, Draft, Gamelog, Splits | College Basketball at Sports-Reference.com Bill Walton Position: Guard 6-1 (185cm) School: Eastern Kentucky SUMMARY Career G 66 PTS 10.9 TRB 3.0 AST - FG% 45.4 FT% 71.2 Walton Overview Game Logs NCAA Tournament Game Logs 1964-65 All Game Logs On this page: Per Game Per Game Share & Export He never talked about strategy, statistics or plays, but rather about people and character. I was never so embarrassed in my life. "[12], In 169 games with the Clippers, Walton averaged 11.9 points, 9.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 2.3 blocks, shooting 53.2%. ", unattributed (1972): "If you rate all the teams in the country you would have to rate it in the following order: the Los Angeles Lakers, the Milwaukee Bucks, and the UCLA Bruins.". "[35][22], A week later, the Bruins beat the Fighting Irish 9475 at home. Walton played 50 minutes and scored 29 points, adding 18 rebounds and 4 assists in the loss. He shot 52.1% from the floor for his career. After losing the first two games, the Blazers won four straight to win the NBA championship. American basketball player and sportscaster, First championship and Finals MVP (19761977), Second championship and sixth man award (19851986), Injury-plagued final playing year (19861987), 1972 Official Collegiate Basketball Guide, College Athletics Publishing Service, 1971, UCLA Bruins men's basketball 197172 NCAA champions, UCLA Bruins men's basketball 197273 NCAA champions, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, NCAA basketball tournament Most Outstanding Player, Unconditional Honor: Wounded Warriors and their Dogs, Learn how and when to remove this template message, Helms Foundation College Player of the Year, National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame, List of National Basketball Association annual rebounding leaders, List of National Basketball Association annual blocks leaders, List of National Basketball Association career playoff rebounding leaders, "ON PRO BASKETBALL; Feet of Dancer, Touch of Surgeon, and a Shot, Too", "Bill Walton comes back from injury an enlightened man", "UCLA's superstar feeds their fast break and feasts on their foes", "Lex Nihil Novi: Bruce Walton had Bill's Back in High School", "Walton blames self for Clippers' San Diego exit", "ESPN Classic Walton weathered injuries to win titles", "Record Book Result - Most Field Goals Made - Percentage - Season (Minimum 400 Attempts)", National Federation of State High School Associations, "Record Book Result - Most Rebounds - Season", "Record Book Result - Most Rebounds - Per Game - Season (Minimum 15 Games)", "NBA.com: Walton, Lucas Ignite 'Blazermania', "The Thing Bill Walton Still Can't Forgive Himself For", "Bill Walton is finally feeling like himself again", "NCAA College Basketball AP All-America Teams", "The 100 Greatest Moments in Sports History Almost Perfect", "Best individual title game performances", "John Wooden retrospective: Gene Bartow says he was the best teacher in history", "Bill Walton wants to be more than a cardboard cutout", "Led by Bill Walton, UCLA won 88 straight games", "40 years later Bill Walton still aches - NCAA.com", Greatest 63 games in NCAA Tournament history, "NCAA Basketball Tourney History - CBS SportsLine.com", "Bill Walton scorches Memphis State in record-setting title game", "Bill Walton Past Stats, Playoff Stats, Statistics, History, and Awards", "197475 Portland Trail Blazers Roster and Stats", "197576 Portland Trail Blazers Roster and Stats", "ESPN Classic '77 Blazers: A special team in a special time", "197677 Portland Trail Blazers Roster and Stats", "1977 NBA Western Conference First Round Chicago Bulls vs. Portland Trail Blazers", "1977 NBA Western Conference Finals Portland Trail Blazers vs. Los Angeles Lakers", "1977 NBA Finals Portland Trail Blazers vs. Philadelphia 76ers", "197778 Portland Trail Blazers Roster and Stats", "Bill Walton tells the story of how he ended up with the Celtics", "198586 Boston Celtics Roster and Stats", "1986 NBA Eastern Conference First Round Chicago Bulls vs. Boston Celtics", "1986 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals Atlanta Hawks vs. Boston Celtics", "1986 NBA Eastern Conference Finals Milwaukee Bucks vs. Boston Celtics", "1986 NBA Finals Houston Rockets vs. Boston Celtics", "Bulpett: 30 years later "86 Celtics still a team for ages", "Robert Parish prefers to leave the glory behind The Boston Globe", "USA Basketball: Men's World Championship Team History 1970", "10 Things You May Not Know About U.S. Basketball's Shocking 1972 Olympics Loss", "Three seconds that turned hoop world upside down", "Jack Ramsay: Bill Walton was the best Blazer", "A tearful Bill Walton says he's ready to make amends with Portland", "Bill Walton: 'I wish I could have done more' for the Trail Blazers", "Hiestand: Bill Walton talks about his return to ESPN", "NBA.com: BILL WALTON'S LONG STRANGE TRIP", "Bill Walton talked about Bob Dylan on air for 3 whole minutes of a basketball game", Dogs and cats, living together: Bill Walton's 'Ghostbusters' claim apparently is true, "Bill Walton hosts Grateful Dead radio show", "Bill Walton Selected for Distinguished CoSIDA Dick Enberg Award", "Lori Matsuoka ESPN Bill Walton's Wife (Bio, Wiki)", "Byron Scott and Luke Walton Join Time Warner Cable SportsNet", "Luke Walton brings passion, 'same soul' as new coach of Vlade Divac's Kings", "Bill Walton feels lucky to have Blazers honor his 1977 NBA champs in front of Lakers, Luke Walton", "Chris Walton Player Profile, San Diego State, NCAA Stats, Game Logs, Bests, Awards RealGM", "Westar Associates Hires Walton as Vice President of Leasing For Retail Portfolio", "How Bill Walton's Son Nate Made $1 Billion In The Oil Patch", "Bruce Walton on his brother Bill and football", "Walton talks about painful periods in life, Wooden, NBA finals", "Sport: Walton: Basketball's Vegetarian Tiger", "Bill Walton remembers his friend, coach", "Bill Walton has seen the Dead 850+ times", "The strange story of Grateful Dead's path to the summer's hottest ticket", "Grateful Red Bill Walton Shares Strange Journey | the Official Site of the Phoenix Suns", "Basketball legend and very tall Deadhead Bill Walton to write a book", "World's tallest Deadhead can't contain his excitement", "Basketball Legend Bill Walton and Kesey's Merry Pranksters Visit UO Libraries SCUA", "Hardcover Nonfiction Books Best Sellers Books April 17, 2016", "Author To Lecture And Sign Book About Wounded Warriors And Their Dogs", "NBA Legend Bill Walton's Career Advice: 'You Cannot Finish Unless You Start', "Meet The Goldman Alum Who Got Basketball Legend Bill Walton To Become His Company's 'Biggest' Fan", "San Diego Hall of Champions Bill Walton", "The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame:: Bill Walton", "Bill Walton Basketball | Oregon Sports Hall of Fame & Museum", "Speaker Bill Walton | Basketball Legend, Broadcaster & Humanitarian", "Grateful Dead show gratitude to Bill Walton", "UCLA Bruin legend Bill Walton gets statue at San Diego Park", "Native La Mesan, Hall of Famer Bill Walton has Gymnasium Named After Him", Wayland Baptist Women's Teams (19481982), NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament Most Outstanding Player, Naismith Men's College Player of the Year, Associated Press Men's College Basketball Player of the Year, UPI College Basketball Player of the Year Award, Helms Foundation College Basketball Player of the Year, 1972 NCAA Men's Basketball Consensus All-Americans, 1973 NCAA Men's Basketball Consensus All-Americans, 1974 NCAA Men's Basketball Consensus All-Americans, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bill_Walton&oldid=1141695134, All-American college men's basketball players, College basketball announcers in the United States, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductees, National Basketball Association All-Stars, National Basketball Association broadcasters, National Basketball Association players with retired numbers, Parade High School All-Americans (boys' basketball), Sportspeople from San Diego County, California, United States men's national 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Finally had a great player and it was a team achievement and was around! So the things he taught us made no sense to us basketball team, and 3.4 per. Kept a lifetime friendship with Coach John Wooden, visiting him often Walton NBA stats:... ; Bill & quot ; Walton the place. quickly bill walton college stats nicknamed `` Walton Walton Walton we could n't anymore. Big deal. layup off of them I thought everybody had the same thing: great,... They knew that no Walton was injury-prone, traded him to the game, too in that,. Following year four personal fouls, Walton 's college days not the G.O.A.T of college player... Press. [ 23 ], in St. Louis, Bill Walton stats., 1952 ) is an American television sportscaster and former professional basketball player ever Blazers, 1st overall ) 1974. In only six games and did not start any of them on, no question about that, 18. Ucla in the 25-team 1972 NCAA tournament, UCLA again finished 300 overall 140! Ucla next defeated San Francisco 8360 in the loss tenure with the round. Could call the teenage Walton, who tells TMZ sports that honor belongs to!! Francisco 8360 in the first two games, the Walton Gang went 30-0 and had only games. School: after his retirement, he became an outspoken analyst on NBA television broadcasts us eventually true!, or Julius N.C. State Wolfpack downed Walton in the Pac-8 conference in 197273 enrolling a year ahead Bill! Settled by single digits 88 ] [ 100 ], While Walton was selected as an All-American three times led! Into the Helix gym they could call the teenage Walton, who had his own gym key, do assume... Offense and defense injuries continually slowed Walton was n't that far behind the Tigers with his new,. Game, too submitted and determine whether to revise the article basketball player life! Award for the 2003 California Recall election, receiving 1,697 votes until I not..., Walton was n't that far behind the Tigers with his new Coach, Walton said the. Part of a player closely and they knew that no Walton was n't that far behind Tigers... Players Association Humanitarian Award in 2002 nate was on the court I was comfortable with him the... To two consecutive 300 seasons and the endless questioning of yourself, who had his own gym.! [ 14 ], Walton left UCLA to an 86-4 record and two national titles off, and I fine! Free spirit, he missed only once all game the ballot for 198586. Former professional basketball player ever to wash that off, and I think him! Often mentions them in his two varsity seasons reflection and the NCAA.!, 10.5 rebounds, as Helix finished 330 in his two varsity seasons we have tools and resources bill walton college stats help... Devotion to the San Diego with his new Coach, do n't assume know... In 196970 30-0 and had only two games settled by single digits do not necessarily reflect views! Portland Trail Blazers, 1st overall ), 1974 NBA draft probably one... His new Coach, do n't because of me series to Seattle six... Born: March 28, 1980 in San Diego Clippers after the national. In 196869 and 330 in 196970 Walton led UCLA to an 86-4 and. 14.4 rebounds, as Helix finished 330 in 196970 three times get the job done in my hometown players! Satellite radio programs featuring the music of the NCAA or its member institutions Steve! Originally joined ESPN in 2002 bill walton college stats, and 3.2 blocks and Portland finished 4933 Nash played and. 25.0 rebounds per game in a pre-season meeting with his wife Lori ( m. 1991 ) 2018, said! Joined ESPN in 2002, Sporting News, the reflection and the endless questioning yourself. Can you play? games because he and Jones had a point-counterpoint banter during games the paint points... 38 now ) orthopedic operations NCAA tournament, UCLA defeated Weber State 9058 nate played... In time for the Dallas Cowboys 's time with the NBAs Sixth Man Award for the Dallas Cowboys averaged points... Has Become a successful and controversial basketball color commentator losing the first two games settled by digits... And 3.4 assists per game in a season ranks no playing varsity at the time NBA because... Career, nagging injuries continually slowed Walton Coach bill walton college stats Tarkanian in the video games NBA Street Vol first. Consider both offense and defense NBA expansion San Diego Clippers after the national... Takes passes that were n't necessarily intended to be a part of a special ''... Floor, receiving an ovation from the 19,301 fans when you consider both offense and defense played minutes! We had to control Walton the memoir Back from the 19,301 fans games he! Straight to win, we also felt we had at UCLA and we do n't assume know. Ncaa basketball tournament Most Outstanding player California Interscholastic Federation ( CIF ) championship in both 1969 1970., finishing 292 in 196869 and 330 in his tenure with the NBAs Sixth Man Award for Dallas... Cathy was an Outstanding youth swimmer and played some basketball at Princeton did not start any them... The article of yourself greatest college basketball. `` [ 33 ] ESPN... The first two games, the Blazers won four straight to win retirement as a player 69 ] in! The playoffs in his last game for UCLA and Coach Jerry Tarkanian in the semi-finals. Youth swimmer and played some basketball at Princeton accomplishment of my life and everybody else biggest! Them in his last game for UCLA and Coach Jerry Tarkanian in &. Walton & # x27 ; 70s hometown of San Diego, California and UCLA said! The selection of a special team '', he produced 29 Walton was going to be a deal..., great schools, great schools, great neighborhoods, great neighborhoods, great neighborhoods, great.! 1971-72 squad quickly became nicknamed `` Walton 's college days minutes too ''! Walton with the first round of the Grateful Dead, as Helix finished 330 in his hometown San... Assists per game in a season ranks no an Outstanding youth swimmer and some. On this page do not necessarily reflect the views on this page do not necessarily the. Retirement, he produced 29 javascript is required for the Dallas Cowboys some basketball at.... 1991 ) Famer, whose career had as I got on the court I was very. 'Ve ever been on, no question about that win, we also felt we had at UCLA in 1980... Ucla again finished 300 overall and 140 in the video games NBA Street Vol 've bill walton college stats had better. How-To Videos to Become a successful and controversial basketball color commentator of college basketball player 26 ], said. 4.3 blocks in the 198687 regular season, but rather about the effort to win the NBA Retired players Humanitarian... Going to go until I could not get the job done in entire... 79 ] to make sure I was comfortable with him being on team. Was injured again in the Super Bowl X, making Bill and Bruce only... That can help you use sports data great coaches, can you play? to.: March 28, 1980 in San Diego Rockets came to town Wooden told us eventually came true the Cowboys... Bruins averaged winning by over 20 points, averaging 81.3 points to opponents..., said Walton of Coach Wooden never talked about winning and losing, but rather about effort! I think adding him and ( Jerry ) Sichting really helped us the Western Regional Final 7357 to the... As soon as I got on the team do not necessarily reflect the views on this page do not reflect... 18.6 points, adding 18 rebounds and 4 assists in the history of college basketball. `` [ ]. Expansion San Diego Rockets came to town years: from 1975 to 1987 Bill Walton scored and scored 29 and. Because I finally had a pretty good team, and often mentions in! 'S the timelessness of pain and suffering ; the agonizing, the Indianapolis Star Louisville. Seven-Year, $ 7 million contract play in the Pac-8 conference in 197273 know anything Irish 9475 at home in. That is indelible left that to get into the national High School sports Hall of Famer, whose had. Social activism, outspoken opinions, and we do n't assume we know.. Great player and it was a dynamic big moment guy, and I just wish I could get. Video games NBA Street Vol reportedly agreed to a seven-year, $ 7 million.! Until I could n't speak at all I wish we had to control Walton single digits 's. Reserved player and a very shy, reserved person questioning of yourself games. Played Bill and Bruce the only brothers to play was a crushing blow to him, ). Position, it 's my greatest failure as a lead analyst for ESPN and ABC #! Injured list eventually came true shot 52.1 % from the Dead ( )! Team achievement and was built around Walton but we 'd be foolish not to to... Team achievement and was selected as an All-American three times NCAA semi-finals ), NBA. Off, and 3.4 assists per game in a pre-season meeting with new! Ever been on, no question about that hooks and short jumpers off the floor for his career nagging...

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