Pat Williams, co-founder of Orlando Magic, dies at the age of 84

Pat Williams, co-founder of the Orlando Magic and NBA veteran for more than half a century, died Wednesday from complications of viral pneumonia, the team said.

Williams was 84 years old.

He began his NBA career in 1968 as business manager of the Philadelphia 76ers and then served as general manager of the Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks and 76ers – helping that franchise win an NBA title in 1983.

A few years later, Williams was involved in efforts to bring an NBA team to Orlando.

The league’s board of directors granted an expansion license in 1987 and the team began play in 1989.

“Pat Williams simply brought magic to Orlando,” Orlando Magic chairman Dan DeVos and CEO Alex Martins said in a joint statement. “His accomplishments will always be remembered. With his ever-present optimism and unparalleled energy, he was an incredible visionary who helped change the world of sports in many ways.”

“From bringing the Magic to Orlando to transforming sports marketing and advertising, he has always been one step ahead.”