Four-time NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer Walt Bellamy passed away on Saturday, Nov. 2, at the age of 74.
The Atlanta Hawks were one of the five franchises Bellamy played for, and they released a statement in remembrance of the star center:
The Atlanta Hawks family is saddened to learn of the death of Walt Bellamy at the age of 74 earlier today. The Hawks and the National Basketball Association have lost a giant. As an Olympic gold medalist, the first overall pick in 1961, Rookie of the Year in 1962, a four-time All-Star and a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, his on-court accomplishments were overwhelming. Off the court, he was equally impactful as a family man, leader in the community, mentor and friend to many.
Commissioner David Stern also shared his thoughts on Bellamy, per NBA History's official Twitter:
Bellamy was selected No. 1 overall in the 1961 draft by the Chicago Packers—now the Washington Wizards—and made his impact felt immediately in being chosen as the Association's top rookie after his maiden campaign.
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Article written by Matt Fitzgerald