“Rest In Peace”: Tragedy Strikes NBA As Ex-Champion Gus Williams’ Sudden Death Leaves Fans Heartbroken

Tragedy strikes the world of basketball! Well, the Seattle SuperSonics were one of the most beloved franchises in the NBA. But despite their rich history, they only made it to the top of the mountain once. In 1979. And it was Gus Williams who led them to their maiden championship. Sadly, the legendary Sonics guard has reportedly passed away at the age of 71, leaving the hoops world devastated.

According to his brother, David Williams, Gus’ body simply broke down in the last four days. He had been living in a nursing facility in Baltimore amid his declining health. Thankfully, he was surrounded by family in his final moments as his daughter flew in to be with him.

Obviously, fans are devastated by the tragic news of Williams’ death, and the internet is flooded with condolences and “Rest in Peace” messages for the Sonics legend. It shows the impact he had on the basketball community.

Meanwhile, latest reports revealed that Gus’ funeral will take place in his hometown of Mt. Vernon. Although the cause of his sudden passing has not been revealed, Williams suffered a significant stroke five years ago, requiring assisted living. Surprisingly, the battle also led to the creation of the Sonics Legends Fund, which provides financial support to former players.

Yes, the initiative began after insurance failed to cover Gus’ medical expenses following his stroke. His longtime friend Sandy Gregory, who worked for the Seahawks and came up with the idea of ​​using player fines as funds for retired and older players, helped create a similar fund for Sonics legends in hopes of helping Gus and other former players. Sure enough, the foundation helped Gus get quality care up until the time of his passing. Also, everyone will remember the legacy he left behind.

Fans mourn the tragic passing of 70’s “Best NBA Player” Gus Williams

Besides the countless RIP messages, the internet was also bombarded with fond memories of Gus such as comments like “Gus was a pleasure to watch back then” and “Was a big Gus Williams fan back in the 1970s” began to pour in. Although a second-round pick, Williams became an instant sensation when he started his career with the Warriors. And then-franchise GM Dick Vertlieb even had high praise for him after recognizing his talent, “We were very fortunate to get him in the second round. . . . Gus Williams is a bird. He’s got to fly. You can’t keep him a secret. . . . He should always consider himself a first-round pick.”

Soon after, Gus was nicknamed ‘The Wizard’ for his lightning fast speed and insane athleticism. One fan even wrote in his memory, “The wizard was the one I wanted to play as RIP.” And he was even considered “Best NBA Player of the Late 1970s.” Well, Gus led his team to a championship in only his fourth season. And he was way ahead of his time, a speedy guard who dominated the big man era. So calling him the best player of all time is not a far-fetched idea. The NBA lost a legendary player and more importantly a great human today, but his legacy will live on forever. What is your fondest memory of Gus Williams?