Bill Walton died at the age of 71

Bill Walton during a recording session for an upcoming video game, September 2, 2001, in San Diego, California. (Getty Images/Bob Riha, Jr.)

UCLA star and NBA Hall of Famer Bill Walton has died at the age of 71, the NBA announced Monday.

According to ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, who cited the league as his source, the successful center died of cancer.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called Walton “truly one of a kind” in a statement, citing his impact both on the court and in the commentary booth, “where he provided insightful and colorful commentary that entertained generations of basketball fans.”

“But what I will remember most about him was his zest for life,” Silver said. “He was a regular at league events – always in good spirits, with a big smile on his face and always ready to share his wisdom and warmth. I cherished our close friendship, envied his boundless energy and admired the time he took for each person he met.”

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