One thing about Bill Walton was his uncanny connection and relationship to the City of San Diego. After his passing on Memorial Day, many people came to show remembrance and pay tribute to the legend.
Walton’s connection with San Diego is a long one. He was born in La Mesa, went to Helix High School, and lived the last years of his life in San Diego. He also played for the San Diego Clippers, and his relationship with the city is a special one.
As a result, the San Diego Padres honored Walton with a tribute prior to the game on Tuesday against the Miami Marlins.
The @Padres had a very nice moment of silence tonight in honor of the San Diego Legend Bill Walton.
📸 on assignment for @usatodaysports. pic.twitter.com/XrjXdbJhVj
— David Frerker (@DavidFrerker) May 29, 2024
Legendary play-by-play man Ted Leitner also chimed in with special praise about Walton:
Wonderful pre-game tribute and moment of silence by my #padres for the great Bill Walton before tonight’s win over the Marlins. Loved life. Loved San Diego. Loved his hometown baseball team. We love you Red. Forever. pic.twitter.com/VDJmSRLRFc
— Ted Leitner (@TedLeitner) May 29, 2024
It was a special moment for a special person who was a legend in so many regards, and the tributes for Bill Walton might be happening for quite a while.