NORFOLK, VIRGINIA – SEPTEMBER 13, 2015 – (Gephardt Daily)
Moses Malone, one of the most accomplished stars in the history of pro basketball, has died unexpectedly at the age of 60.
Word of Malone’s death was first announced by the NBA early Sunday morning. “We are stunned and deeply saddened by the passing of Hall of Famer Moses Malone, an NBA legend gone too soon,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
That sentiment was echoed by Philadelphia 76ers franchise, a team which Malone led to an NBA championship in 1983.
“It is with a deep sense of sadness that the Sixers family mourns the loss of Moses Malone,” said CEO Scott O’Neil. “It is difficult to express what his contributions to this organization – both as a friend and as a player – have meant to us, the city of Philadelphia and his faithful fans. Moses holds a special place in our hearts and will forever be remembered as a genuine icon and pillar of the most storied era in the history of Philadelphia 76ers basketball.”
Malone cracked into pro basketball directly out of high school, playing for the ABA’s Utah Stars back in 1974.
Over the course of the next 21 years, Malone rose to all-star status, even after making the leap to the NBA.
He was named Most-Valuable Player three times. He played on the NBA All-Star team a total of 12 times.
Malone was admitted to the NBA Hall of Fame in 2001.
