On June 8, 2024, the basketball world mourned the loss of Chet Walker, a renowned Chicago Bulls Hall of Famer, who died at 84 in Long Beach, California. His basketball career, notable for his exceptional skill and lasting influence, spanned 13 seasons in the NBA.
Born in Bethlehem, Mississippi, Chester Walker spent his youth in Michigan, leading his team at Benton Harbor High School to the state championships. He continued his athletic pursuits at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, setting a school record with 1,975 points and twice earning consensus All-American honors. His abilities propelled the Braves to victory in the 1960 National Invitation Tournament (NIT).
In the 1962 NBA Draft, Walker was picked in the second round by the Syracuse Nationals. His professional career began on a high note as he was selected for the NBA All-Rookie Team. Following the Nationals’ move to Philadelphia, where they became the 76ers, Walker played alongside Wilt Chamberlain, contributing to their 1967 NBA championship victory over the Boston Celtics and the San Francisco Warriors.
Walker was traded to the Chicago Bulls in 1969 after seven seasons with the 76ers. During his six-season stint with the Bulls, Walker averaged 20.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. His scoring prowess was instrumental in the Bulls’ consistent playoff appearances. His career-best 56 points in a 1972 game against the Cincinnati Royals remained a franchise record until it was broken by Michael Jordan in 1987.
Walker’s contributions to the sport went beyond the court. As the Bulls’ representative to the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), he challenged the NBA-ABA merger and the league’s reserve clause, which limited player movement. His efforts played a crucial role in establishing free agency for players.
Following his 1975 retirement from professional basketball, Walker embarked on a successful career as a producer in Los Angeles. His most noteworthy project is the Emmy-winning TV series “A Mother’s Courage,” inspired by the life of Mary Thomas, mother of Isiah Thomas.
Walker’s extraordinary contributions to basketball were recognized with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. Most recently, he was part of the inaugural Ring of Honor class of the Chicago Bulls in 2023.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Chet Walker,” said Dr. Chris Reynolds, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at Bradley University. “Chet’s remarkable achievements on and off the court have profoundly influenced Bradley University, college basketball, the NBA, and the Greater Peoria community.”
Walker’s records, including 54 career double-doubles at Bradley University and 1,975 career points, continue to inspire future generations. His No. 31 jersey was retired by both Bradley University and the Chicago Bulls, further solidifying his legacy.
From his humble beginnings in a house without indoor plumbing or electricity to becoming an NBA legend, Walker’s journey epitomizes determination and talent. His NBA statistics—18,831 points, 7,314 rebounds, and 2,126 assists over 1,032 regular-season games, along with a shooting accuracy of nearly 80% from the free-throw line and 47% from the field—speak volumes about his dedication and consistent performance. He earned seven NBA All-Star selections during his illustrious career.
As the basketball community remembers Chet Walker, his accomplishments, contributions to the sport, and advocacy for players’ rights will be celebrated. His legacy lives on in the hearts of fans, teammates, and the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
