Chet Walker, the legendary Chicago Bulls Hall of Famer, has died at age 84. Walker passed away on June 8, 2024 in Long Beach, California. Known for his exceptional skills on the basketball court, Walker’s career spanned 13 seasons, during which he left an indelible mark on the NBA.
Walker, originally from Mississippi, grew up in Michigan, where he attended Benton Harbor High School and led his team to the state championship game. He went on to play college basketball at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois where he became the school’s all-time leading scorer with 1,975 points. Walker’s stellar college career earned him consensus All-American honors twice and led the Braves to a National Invitation Tournament (NIT) championship in 1960.
Drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in the second round of the 1962 NBA Draft, Walker began his professional career strongly, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team. When the Nationals relocated to Philadelphia and became the 76ers, Walker continued to excel, becoming a key player alongside Wilt Chamberlain. In 1967, Walker and the 76ers clinched the NBA championship, defeating the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference finals and the San Francisco Warriors in the Finals.
After seven successful seasons with the 76ers, Walker was traded to the Chicago Bulls in 1969. Over his six seasons with the Bulls, Walker averaged 20.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. He was a consistent scorer and helped lead the Bulls to the playoffs every year he was with the team. Notably, Walker scored a career-high 56 points in a 1972 game against the Cincinnati Royals, setting a franchise record until Michael Jordan broke it in 1987.
Walker’s impact extended beyond his on-court performance. He was the Bulls’ representative to the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). He played a pivotal role in challenging the NBA-ABA merger and the league’s reserve clause, which restricted player movement. His efforts contributed to the eventual establishment of free agency for players.
Retiring from professional basketball in 1975, Walker transitioned into a successful career as a producer in Los Angeles. His most notable work includes the Emmy-winning TV series “A Mother’s Courage,” based on the life of Isiah Thomas’ mother, Mary.
Walker was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, a testament to his extraordinary contributions. More recently, he was honored in the Chicago Bulls’ inaugural Ring of Honor class in 2023.
Bradley University and the broader basketball community mourn the loss of Chet “The Jet” Walker, remembering him as a player whose contributions on and off the court have left a lasting legacy. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Chet Walker,” said Dr. Chris Reynolds, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at Bradley University. “Chet’s remarkable achievements on and off the court have profoundly influenced Bradley University, college basketball, the NBA, and the Greater Peoria community.”
Walker’s achievements and records continue to inspire future generations of basketball players. He remains Bradley University’s leader in career double-doubles with 54, and his 1,975 career points still rank fourth on the school’s all-time scoring list. His legacy is further cemented by the retirement of his No. 31 jersey by both Bradley University and the Chicago Bulls.
In reflecting on his life, Walker’s humble beginnings and relentless pursuit of excellence stand out. Born in Bethlehem, Mississippi, the youngest of 10 children, Walker overcame significant adversity, growing up in a house without indoor plumbing or electricity. His journey from those humble beginnings to becoming an NBA legend is a testament to his determination and talent.
Walker’s NBA career statistics are impressive: 18,831 points, 7,314 rebounds, and 2,126 assists over 1,032 regular-season games, with a shooting accuracy of nearly 80% from the free throw line and 47% from the field. His dedication to the game and consistent performance earned him seven NBA All-Star selections and a place among the sport’s greats.
The basketball world will remember Chet Walker for his remarkable achievements, contributions to the sport, and role in advocating for players’ rights. His legacy will continue to be celebrated by fans and teammates, as well as the many lives he has touched throughout his career.
