Seven-time All-Star forward Chet Walker, who played for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Chicago Bulls, passed away on June 8 at the age of 84.
The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) confirmed Walker’s death on its website. Following the announcement, the 76ers, Bulls, and the National Basketball Retired Players Association expressed their condolences on social media.
The NBA shared a short video in memory of the legendary player on the social media platform X.
“The basketball community has lost a Legend. Our hearts are with the family, friends, and fans of Chet Walker,” the association wrote on X.
“The Hall of Fame mourns the passing of Chet Walker. His contributions to the 76ers and the Bulls made him a 7-time All-Star and league champion.
His free-throw accuracy was unparalleled, and his memory will live on at the Hall,” the Hall of Fame posted.
“His skill, dedication, and contributions to the game made a lasting impact on the sport of basketball and the city of Chicago,” the Bulls stated.
“Chet Walker will forever be remembered as a true Chicago Bulls icon.”
A native of Mississippi, Mr. Walker attended high school in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He then continued his basketball career at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, where he played with the Braves as a two-time All-American.
Walker’s exceptional skills contributed significantly to the team’s success, including a notable win in the 1960 NIT championship, where he delivered a formidable performance.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Bradley University’s basketball program, his No. 31 jersey was retired by the school in 1976, honoring his legacy on the court.
Chet Walker’s NBA career began during the 1962-63 season when he joined the Syracuse Nationals, who later became the Philadelphia 76ers. Over his 13 seasons in the league, Walker consistently led his teams to the playoffs each year, showcasing his remarkable skills on the court. He maintained impressive averages of 18.2 points and 7.1 rebounds throughout his career.
One of the highlights of Walker’s career was helping the 76ers secure the 1967 NBA title, a testament to his impact on the team’s success. The Philadelphia organization credited him for his profound influence not only on the team but also on the NBA as a whole.
In September 1969, Mr. Walker left the 76ers to join the Chicago Bulls, where he teamed up with Bob Love to form a formidable duo that made the Bulls a strong contender for the championship. Although they didn’t reach the NBA Finals together, their partnership left a lasting mark on the Bulls’ history.
Nicknamed “The Jet” for his speed and agility on the court, the 6-foot-7 forward was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the game. Additionally, in January, Walker became part of Chicago’s inaugural class for its Ring of Honor, further cementing his legacy with the Bulls.
At the conclusion of the 1974-75 season, Chet Walker retired from professional basketball, marking the end of an illustrious career filled with achievements and accolades.
