Hall of Fame forward Chet Walker, known as “The Jet” for his speed, passed away at the age of 84. Walker was a seven-time NBA All-Star and had an illustrious career in professional basketball.
He was initially drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in 1962 and later moved with the team to Philadelphia, where they became the 76ers. Walker was a key player on the 1966-67 Sixers team that had a remarkable season, winning 68 games and breaking the Boston Celtics’ eight-year championship streak. He played alongside basketball legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Hal Greer, and Billy Cunningham during that memorable season.
In 1969, Walker was traded to the Chicago Bulls, where he continued to showcase his skills on the court. He played a vital role in the team alongside players like Bob Love, Jerry Sloan, and Norm Van Lier. Walker’s contributions to the Bulls earned him a spot in the team’s Ring of Honor.
Throughout his 13-year career, Walker maintained impressive averages of 18.2 points and 7.1 rebounds per game. His performance on the court solidified his legacy as one of the greats in basketball history. Among his 1962 draft class, only John Havlicek had more win shares than Walker, showcasing his impact on the game.
Originally from Mississippi, Walker attended high school in Benton Harbor, Michigan, before excelling at Bradley University. At Bradley, he was a two-time All-American and played a crucial role in the team’s victory at the 1960 NIT championship.
In 2012, Walker was rightfully inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the sport. His legacy lives on not only through his achievements on the court but also through the impact he had on the city of Chicago and the basketball community as a whole.
The Chicago Bulls honored Walker earlier this year by including him in their first Ring of Honor class, alongside basketball icons like Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman. The team acknowledged Walker’s skill, dedication, and lasting impact on the sport, ensuring that he will always be remembered as a true Chicago Bulls legend.