Chet Walker, a legendary Hall of Fame forward and seven-time NBA All-Star known as “The Jet,” has passed away at 84, according to the National Basketball Players Association. Walker launched his NBA career with the Syracuse Nationals, who later became the Philadelphia 76ers.
He played a pivotal role in the 76ers’ extraordinary 1966-67 season, in which they set a record with 68 wins and broke the Boston Celtics’ eight-year championship streak. Throughout that season, Walker was a standout performer, averaging 19.3 points and 8.1 rebounds per game, significantly contributing alongside stars like Wilt Chamberlain, Hal Greer, and Billy Cunningham.
In 1969, Walker was traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he became a key player for the team. Alongside Bob Love, Jerry Sloan, and Norm Van Lier, Walker helped shape the early success of the Bulls. His impact on the team was recognized with his inclusion in the Bulls’ Ring of Honor.
Over his 13-year NBA career, Walker maintained impressive averages of 18.2 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. He stood out in the 1962 draft class, with only John Havlicek achieving more win shares than him.
Walker hailed from Mississippi and attended high school in Benton Harbor, Michigan, before making a significant mark at Bradley University. At Bradley, he was a two-time All-American and played a pivotal role in winning the 1960 NIT championship. His college career set the stage for his successful transition to the NBA.
In 2012, Walker’s achievements were formally recognized with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. This honor underscored his contributions to the sport and his lasting legacy in basketball history.
Earlier this year, the Bulls unveiled their first Ring of Honor, which included Walker, among other legends such as Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman. The Bulls paid tribute to Walker, highlighting his skill, dedication, and significant impact on both the team and the city of Chicago. The statement from the Bulls emphasized that Chet Walker will always be remembered as a true icon of the Chicago Bulls.