Chet Walker, a member of the National Basketball Association (NBA) Hall of Fame and a Chicago Bulls legend, died on June 8, 2024, in Long Beach, California at the age of 84. Walker’s 13-season career in the NBA was marked by extraordinary skill and talent.
Born in Bethlehem, Mississippi and raised in Michigan, Walker’s basketball journey began at Benton Harbor High School, leading his team to the state championship game. He then attended Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois, where he became the school’s all-time leading scorer, racking up 1,975 points.
Walker was the youngest of 10 children in a house without indoor plumbing or electricity. His journey from these humble beginnings to becoming an NBA legend is a testament to his talent and determination.
His impressive college career, which included two consensus All-American honors and leading the Braves to a National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship in 1960, set the stage for his future in the NBA.
Walker’s professional career started when the Syracuse Nationals drafted him in the second round of the 1962 NBA Draft. His performance earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team. After the Nationals moved to Philadelphia and became the 76ers, Walker became an integral part of the team alongside Wilt Chamberlain. In 1967, the 76ers, with Walker’s help, clinched the NBA championship by defeating the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals and the San Francisco Warriors in the Finals.
In 1969, after seven seasons with the 76ers, Walker was traded to the Chicago Bulls. During his six seasons with the Bulls, he averaged 20.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, helping the Bulls reach the playoffs each year. Walker’s 56-point career-high in a 1972 game against the Cincinnati Royals set a franchise record which stood until Michael Jordan broke it in 1987.
Walker’s influence was not limited to the basketball court. As the Bulls’ representative to the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), he played a crucial role in challenging the NBA-ABA merger and the league’s reserve clause, which limited player movement. His efforts were instrumental in establishing free agency for players.
After retiring from basketball in 1975, Walker embarked on a successful career as a producer in Los Angeles. His notable works include the Emmy-winning TV series “A Mother’s Courage,” based on the life of Isiah Thomas’ mother, Mary.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Walker was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. He was also honored as part of the inaugural Ring of Honor class by the Chicago Bulls in 2023.
The passing of Chet “The Jet” Walker deeply saddened Bradley University and the wider basketball community. Dr. Chris Reynolds, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at Bradley University, noted the profound impact of Walker’s achievements both on and off the court on Bradley University, college basketball, the NBA, and the Greater Peoria, Illinois, community.
Walker’s records and achievements continue to inspire future generations of basketball players. He still holds the record for career double-doubles at Bradley University with 54, and his 1,975 career points rank fourth on the school’s all-time scoring list.
Walker’s NBA career statistics include 18,831 points, 7,314 rebounds, and 2,126 assists over 1,032 regular-season games. He had an impressive shooting accuracy of nearly 80% from the free throw line and 47% from the field. His consistent performance and dedication to the game earned him seven NBA All-Star selections.
Chet Walker will be remembered for his significant achievements, contributions to basketball, and advocacy for players’ rights. His legacy will be celebrated by fans, former teammates, and the many individuals he influenced throughout his career.
