I’m excited to share that the Portland Trail Blazers will be honoring basketball icon Bill Walton in a special way during the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season. The Blazers announced on Thursday that they will be wearing a jersey band featuring Walton’s iconic No. 32 for the entire season, paying tribute to the Hall of Famer who left an indelible mark on the franchise.
On March 9, 2025, the team will host a dedicated “Bill Walton Tribute Night,” encouraging fans to don their best tie-dye attire to honor Walton’s signature style. Walton, who passed away in May 2024 at the age of 71 after a battle with cancer, was a beloved figure both on and off the court. As the Blazers’ first overall draft pick in 1974, he went on to lead the team to their first-ever NBA championship in 1977, earning Finals MVP honors in the process.
A Storied College And NBA Career
Walton’s basketball excellence began long before his professional days. During his illustrious college career at UCLA, he was a dominant force, leading the Bruins to back-to-back NCAA championships in 1972 and 1973. He earned three National Player of the Year titles and two Final Four Most Outstanding Player titles.
Translating that success to the NBA, Walton averaged a double-double of 18.9 points and 13.2 rebounds per game in the 1977-78 season, earning him the league’s MVP award.
Despite his career plagued by injuries, Walton’s impact on the game was undeniable. His unique combination of size, skill, and court vision earned him comparisons to the legendary Bill Russell, with Spurs coach Gregg Popovich once declaring him “the best passer I’ve seen at his size since Bill Walton.”
Honoring A Basketball Icon
The Blazers’ decision to honor Walton with a jersey band and a special tribute night is a fitting way to celebrate his legacy. The franchise retired his No. 32 jersey in 1989, making him one of the 10 players in Blazers history to have his number immortalized.
“Bill Walton was a true giant of the game, both literally and figuratively,” said Blazers owner Paul Allen. “His contributions to this franchise and the sport of basketball as a whole are immeasurable, and we’re proud to honor him in this way during the upcoming season.”
Walton’s impact extended far beyond his playing days, as he went on to become a respected and beloved broadcaster, known for his infectious enthusiasm and insightful commentary. His unique personality and deep love for the game made him a fan favorite throughout his career.
A Lasting Legacy
The Blazers are preparing to honor Walton, demonstrating that his impact on basketball will endure for future generations. Walton’s name remains etched in the annals of basketball history, from his dominant college career to his NBA championship triumphs.
“Bill Walton was a true icon of the game, and we’re honored to celebrate his legacy in this way,” said Blazers head coach Terry Stotts. “His passion for the sport and his ability to inspire others is truly unparalleled, and we hope our fans will join us in honoring this basketball legend.”
The Blazers are ensuring that Walton’s name and number will forever be associated with the franchise he helped build with the jersey band and the special tribute night. It’s a fitting tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on the game of basketball.
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