Three-time NBA MVP and Pro Basketball Hall of Famer Moses Malone, 60-years-old, was found dead Sunday in hotel in Norfolk, Virginia.
Malone failed to appear at a scheduled celebrity gold tournament, which prompted the discovery of his body. There is no indication that foul play was a factor. After hearing the news NBA commissioner Adam Silver made a statement, “We are stunned and deeply saddened by the passing of Hall of Famer Moses Malone, an NBA legend gone far too soon. He was among the most dominant centers ever to play the game and one of the best players in the history of the NBA and the ABA. Even more than his prodigious talent, we will miss his friendship, his generosity, his exuberant personality, and the extraordinary work ethic he brought to the game throughout his 21-year old career. Our thoughts are with Moses’ family and friends during this difficult time.”
Malone’s fans often referred to the star athlete as the ‘Chairman of the Boards.’ He led the Philadelphia 76ers to the title in 1983 and was also crowned Finals MVP. Malone averaged 20.6 points per game and 12.2 rebounds. He played for eight teams over 20 NBA seasons and led the league in rebounding six times. His rebounds totaled 16,212 and Malone still ranks fifth on the NBA’s all-time list. Malone was the first player to go pro right out of high school, signing with the Utah Stars of the American Basketball Association in 1974.
Malone has left a great legacy behind and will forever be remembered as one of the best to ever play in the NBA.