North Carolina At Chapel Hill

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Remembering the Legendary Walter Davis: From UNC Stardom to NBA Greatness

It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to a true basketball icon, Walter Davis. The former NBA great and standout star of the University of North Carolina (UNC) basketball team passed away on Thursday at the age of 69, as confirmed by UNC. Davis’s untimely departure occurred while he was visiting family in Charlotte, North Carolina, and was attributed to natural causes.

During the 1970s, Davis’s name shone brightly in the world of college basketball as he donned the Tar Heels jersey. Under the guidance of the legendary head coach, Dean Smith, Davis left an indelible mark on the court. He amassed a remarkable 1,863 points, secured 670 rebounds, and contributed with 409 assists during his college career. His outstanding contributions earned him a place in the esteemed North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. Davis’s achievements extended to an ACC tournament title and a coveted spot in the NCAA championship game in 1977.

The ties between Walter Davis and UNC ran deep, as his nephew, Hubert Davis, currently helms the men’s basketball team, further cementing the Davis legacy in the Tar Heels’ history.

Walter Davis’s remarkable journey in the world of basketball extended to the international stage, where he represented the United States as a member of the US national team. In 1976, Davis was a pivotal part of the team that clinched a gold medal at the Summer Olympics in Montreal.

Standing tall at 6-foot-6, Davis transitioned from the collegiate stage to the NBA, where he was chosen as the fifth pick in the 1977 NBA Draft. Over the course of his illustrious 15-year NBA career, Davis earned recognition as a six-time NBA All-Star. The majority of his professional career was spent with the Phoenix Suns, where he solidified his status as the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, amassing an impressive 15,666 points.

The news of Davis’s passing deeply impacted not only the basketball world but also the Phoenix Suns, who tweeted, “We are heartbroken.” His moniker, “Sweet D,” echoed the sentiments of fans worldwide, serving as a testament to his prolific scoring abilities and his signature smooth playing style, often described as having a “velvet touch.”

The influence of Walter Davis extended beyond the court, as he was bestowed with several affectionate nicknames by Suns broadcaster Al McCoy, including “The Candyman” and “The Man with the Velvet Touch.” These monikers are a testament to the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

In honor of his outstanding contributions, the Phoenix Suns retired Davis’s No. 6 jersey in 1994. As we reflect on the life and career of this remarkable athlete, we pay tribute to the lasting impact he made in the world of basketball and remember the indomitable spirit that earned him a special place in the hearts of fans and the annals of basketball history.walter davis,walter davis death,walter davis cause of death,walter davis death reason,walter davis died,walter davis highlights,walter davis dead,walter davis obituary,walter davis death cause,basketball,walter davis funeral,walter davis basketball,walter davis dies,walter davis nba,walter davis passed away,walter davis has passed away,walter davis death date,walter davis michael jordan,walter davis is dead,walter davis last video,walter davis bey