Celtics mourn passing of Bill Walton, NBA Hall of Famer

Boston Celtics issue statement, send condolences to Walton family

Walton played two seasons for the Celtics, winning one NBA championship

The Boston Celtics are mourning the passing of Bill Walton, the NBA Hall of Famer and two-time NCAA champion who played for the Celtics for two seasons, winning one NBA championship.

Walton, who died Monday at the age of 71, was a beloved figure in the Celtics organization and among fans.

"Bill Walton was a legendary player and a singular personality who genuinely cherished his time in Boston," the Celtics said in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

Walton was drafted by the Celtics with the No. 1 overall pick in the 1974 NBA Draft. He played two seasons in Boston, winning the NBA championship in 1976.

After leaving the Celtics, Walton went on to win two NBA championships with the Portland Trail Blazers in 1977 and 1978.

Walton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.