Walter Davis, a five-time NBA All-Star who had his number retired by the Phoenix Suns, has died at 69 years old.
The death was announced by the Tar Heels, who said that Davis passed naturally while visiting family in Charlotte.
Who was Walter Davis?
Born Walter Pearl Davis in Pineville, North Carolina, Davis was the youngest of 13 children born between 1937 and 1954.
His high school teams at South Mecklenburg High School in Charlotte won three state titles and lost only four games.
After his senior year,he prepped at the Sanford School, Hockessin, DE, and made the All-State team in the 1972-73 season.
He was chosen to represent the USA men’s basketball team at the 1976 Summer Olympics, which was coached by UNC’s Dean Smith.
This was after he had an impressive college career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The team went on to win the gold medal.
In his freshman year, Davis hit a buzzer-beating jump shot against Duke at the end of regulation to send the game into overtime.
At Chapel Hill, Davis was called “Sweet D” because of his seemingly effortless, smooth style of play and because of his strong defensive play.
Walter Davis NBA career
Davis had a remarkable career in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Here are some highlights of his career:
Beginning: Davis was selected by the Phoenix Suns with the fifth pick of the 1977 NBA draft.
He made an immediate impact, playing in 81 games and averaging 24.2 points per game in his first season, which would also be his career-high.
He won the 1978 Rookie of the Year Award, and earned second team All-NBA honors1.
Career Highlights:
Davis was a six-time NBA All-Star (1978–1981, 1984, 1987).
He was a two-time All-NBA Second Team member (1978, 1979).
He was the NBA Rookie of the Year in 1978.
His No. 6 jersey was retired by Phoenix Suns.
He scored a total of 19,521 points (18.9 ppg), made 3,878 assists (3.8 apg), and had 1,280 steals (1.2 spg) in his NBA career.
Teams: He spent the majority of his career with the Phoenix Suns (1977 – 1988).
He also played for the Denver Nuggets (1988 – 1991 and 1991–1992) and Portland Trail Blazers (1991).
Davis later served as a broadcaster for the Nuggets and as a scout for the Washington Wizards.
As time passed, Davis and the Suns repaired their relationship.
In 1994, his No. 6 was retired by the Suns, and in 2004 he was enshrined in the team’s Ring of Honor.
He was the uncle of UNC men’s head coach Hubert Davis, who also played for UNC and in the NBA.
Davis passed away on November 2, 20231. His contributions to the sport of basketball were significant and he is remembered as one of the greats in NBA history.
Walter Davis cause of death
Walter Davis passed away on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at the age of 69, of natural causes while visiting family in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Many people have expressed their condolences and admiration for Walter Davis, who was nicknamed “Sweet D” for his smooth playing style and “velvet touch”.
Here are some of the statements from his former teammates, coaches, and fans:
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Suns legend Walter Davis, the franchise’s all-time leading scorer and a member of our Ring of Honor. ‘Sweet D’ was one of the game’s best, a prolific scorer whose smooth playing style and ‘velvet touch’ endeared him to generations of our fans and the entire basketball community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.” – Phoenix Suns.
“Walter Davis was one of the greatest players to ever wear a Tar Heel uniform. He was a joy to coach, a fierce competitor and an outstanding teammate. He was a wonderful person who loved his family and the University of North Carolina. He will be greatly missed by everyone in the Carolina Basketball family.” – Dean Smith, former North Carolina coach.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of Walter Davis’ passing. He was a mentor, a friend, and a brother to me. He taught me so much about the game and life. He was a legend on and off the court. He had a huge impact on my career and the success of the Suns. I will always cherish the memories we shared and the legacy he left behind. Rest in peace, Sweet D.” – Kevin Johnson, former Suns teammate .
“Walter Davis was one of the best players I ever played with or against. He was a pure shooter, a clutch performer, and a class act. He was a great ambassador for the game and a role model for many young players. He was a humble and gracious man who always had a smile on his face. He was a true professional and a great teammate. My condolences go out to his family and the Suns organization. He will be sorely missed.” – Alex English, former Nuggets teammate .
“Walter Davis was one of my favorite players growing up. He was a smooth operator, a silky scorer, and a joy to watch. He was one of the reasons I became a Suns fan and a basketball lover. He inspired me to play the game with passion and skill. He was a legend and a hero to me and many others. I am heartbroken by his passing and I send my prayers and love to his family and friends. Thank you, Walter, for everything you did for the game and the community. You will always be remembered and honored.” – A Suns fan
When is Walter Davis funeral
As of now, the funeral date of the late Walter Davis has not been disclosed by his family.
Having said that, we are still following up on his death, we will update you as soon as we get important information about Walter Davis funeral service.
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