Bill Walton - legendary college athletes, commentary

Bill Walton's legacy as a college basketball star is a reminder of the disappearing adoration and emotional attachment with today's players.

When basketball legend Bill Walton passed away on Memorial Day, my mind didn't immediately go to his accomplishments as a former No. 1 draft pick, NBA champion, or league MVP. Instead, I thought back to my childhood in North Florida, playing basketball with my brothers on a dirt court with a bent rim and a makeshift backboard nailed to a mossy oak tree.

In those days, we argued over who would get to be Pistol Pete Maravich or David Thompson, but deep down, we all wanted to be Bill Walton. Walton, known as The Big Redhead, was a college basketball star before anything else. He led UCLA to two national titles and an 86-4 record over three years, including two perfect 30-0 seasons. His performance in the 1973 NCAA final, scoring 44 points on 21-of-22 shooting, is still considered one of the greatest college basketball games ever played.

But times have changed, and college athletics will never be the same. With one-and-done players, unlimited transfers, and the ability to profit from their name, image, and likeness, today's college athletes have more freedom and opportunities than ever before. However, they lack the deep emotional connection and adoration that fans had for players like Walton.

Former Duke players Grant Hill and J.J. Redick reflected on the impact of staying in college for four years. They were household names because they played on national TV regularly, forming a special bond with fans. Today, college basketball players often go unnoticed as they quickly transition to the NBA, missing out on the lasting legacy and impact of a college career.

While college athletes today may have financial benefits and opportunities, they might be missing out on the valuable lessons and experiences gained from playing under legendary coaches like John Wooden. Walton often spoke about the values of teamwork, integrity, and discipline instilled in him by Wooden, emphasizing that character is revealed when no one is watching.

As I remember my brother's passing and the simple joy of playing basketball on our makeshift court, I can't help but feel nostalgic for a time when college stars were revered as mythical figures. Today, they come and go like fleeting gusts of wind, leaving behind only temporary memories in a rapidly changing sports landscape.