The University of North Carolina released some sad news on Thursday as legendary basketball player Walter Davis passed away at the age of 69.
Davis is considered one of the best players in Tar Heels’ history earning two-time All-ACC honors in 1976 and 1977. Playing under Dean Smith, Davis scored 1,863 points, had 670 rebounds, and dished out 409 assists in his four seasons.
Following his career with the Tar Heels, Davis went on to win Rookie of the Year in the NBA with the Phoenix Suns and was a five-time All-Star. Davis was also a member of the United States gold-medal-winning team in 1976 while still in college.
Heartbreaking news from @UNC_Basketball, as all time great Walter Davis has passed away at the age of 69.
Made a signature shot in UNC history to tie the 8 points in 17 seconds comeback in 1974.
Thoughts to the Davis family, which of course includes Walter’s nephew, Hubert.
— Adam Lucas (@jadamlucas) November 2, 2023
Davis is the uncle of current North Carolina head coach Hubert Davis.
The guard had one of the most memorable moments in the UNC-Duke rivalry, hitting a 25-foot game-winner against Duke in 1974 to complete a 17-point comeback.
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