Former NBA player and Bill Russell recruit Donald ‘Slick’ Watts dies at 73

The Journey from Obscurity to NBA Stardom: Remembering Slick Watts

Donald “Slick” Watts, a former NBA player whose resilience and talent transformed him from an undrafted rookie to a league standout, passed away at the age of 73. Watts’ life was a testament to hard work and determination, as he rose from humble beginnings to become a fan favorite and a defensive powerhouse in the NBA. His story began in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, where he grew up with a passion for basketball. Despite facing early challenges, Watts’ talent earned him opportunities to play at Grand View Junior College and Xavier University of Louisiana. His big break came in 1973 when Hall of Fame coach Bill Russell signed him as an undrafted rookie to play for the Seattle SuperSonics.

Watts’ time with the Sonics was nothing short of extraordinary. In just a few years, he went from being a relatively unknown player to earning a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team in 1976. His tenacity on the court, combined with his charismatic personality, made him a beloved figure in Seattle. Known for his broad smile, bald head, and signature crooked headbands, Watts became a recognizable face in the league. During the 1975-76 season, he led the NBA in steals, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest defenders of his era.

A Larger-than-Life Personality: Slick Watts’ Enduring Legacy

Slick Watts was more than just a basketball player; he was a cultural icon in Seattle. His infectious personality and unwavering dedication to the game endeared him to fans and teammates alike. Watts’ ability to connect with the community went beyond his performances on the court. He was known for his humility and kindness, traits that made him a role model for young athletes and fans. After his time with the Sonics, Watts went on to play for the New Orleans Jazz and the Houston Rockets, but Seattle always remained his home.

Even after his NBA career came to an end, Watts remained deeply involved in the Seattle sports scene. He frequently attended games for the Sonics, the University of Washington, and the Seattle Storm, where he became a champion for the team. His presence at these events was a reminder of his enduring influence on the city’s basketball culture. The Seattle Storm paid tribute to him, calling him a “champion for the Storm and a beloved member of the Seattle community.”

Watts’ legacy extended far beyond the basketball court. He was a devoted family man and a pillar of strength for his loved ones. His son, Donald Watts Jr., who played basketball for the University of Washington, announced his father’s passing on social media, writing, “You did so much for so many of us. It was an honor to call you pops.” His grandson, Isaiah Watts, who currently plays for Washington State, also shared heartfelt words, expressing how much his grandfather meant to him and the entire family.

A Devoted Family Man: The Private Side of Slick Watts

Despite his fame and success, Watts remained grounded and prioritized his family above all else. His son, Donald, followed in his footsteps as a basketball player, and the two shared a deep bond. Watts was also a proud grandfather to Isaiah, who continues to carry on his legacy in the sport. The tight-knit relationship within the Watts family was evident in the emotional tributes shared by his loved ones after his passing.

Watts’ family was not only his source of strength but also his motivation throughout his career and beyond. After retiring from basketball, he dedicated his life to giving back to his community. He worked as a physical education teacher in the Seattle School District and ran a basketball academy with his son. These efforts allowed him to inspire the next generation of athletes and instill in them the same values of hard work, discipline, and passion that had defined his own career.

A Life of Service: Slick Watts’ Post-Playing Career

Long after his NBA days were over, Slick Watts continued to make an impact in Seattle. He became a staple in the local sports community, attending games and supporting young athletes. His involvement with the Seattle School District and his basketball academy allowed him to mentor kids and share his knowledge of the game. Watts’ commitment to his community was recognized when he was named to the Sonics’ 40th Anniversary Team, a testament to his enduring influence on the franchise and the city.

Watts’ later years were not without challenges, however. In 2021, he suffered a stroke that left him in poor health. Despite this, his spirit remained unbroken, and he continued to inspire those around him with his resilience. His passing on Saturday, announced by his son, sent shockwaves through the basketball world, as fans and former players alike reflected on the impact he had on their lives.

The Seattle community, in particular, mourned the loss of a man who had given so much to the city. From his days as a player to his later years as a teacher and mentor, Watts was a constant presence in Seattle’s basketball scene. His legacy lives on not only through his accomplishments on the court but also through the countless lives he touched off it.

The Passing of a Legend: Remembering Slick Watts

The news of Slick Watts’ passing has brought together fans, former teammates, and community members who were touched by his life and legacy. His son, Donald, took to social media to express his gratitude for the lessons his father taught him and the love he shared with their family. Similarly, his grandson Isaiah shared heartfelt words, vowing to carry on his grandfather’s legacy andkeep his memory alive.

The Seattle Storm, a team Watts supported long after his playing days, also paid tribute to him on social media. “We are saddened by the passing of Sonics icon Slick Watts,” they wrote. “Slick was a champion for the Storm and a beloved member of the Seattle community.” These words encapsulate the profound impact Watts had on the city and its sports culture.

As the basketball world reflects on Watts’ life, it is clear that his influence extends far beyond the court. His journey from obscurity to stardom, his larger-than-life personality, and his devotion to his family and community have left an indelible mark on everyone he touched.

Remembering a Seattle Icon: Slick Watts’ Enduring Impact

Slick Watts may be gone, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of Seattleites and basketball fans everywhere. From his early days as an undrafted rookie to his later years as a beloved community figure, Watts’ life was a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and kindness.

His family, too, will continue to carry on his legacy, both on and off the court. His son and grandson are living examples of the values he instilled in them, and their tributes to him serve as a reminder of the profound impact he had on their lives.

As the city of Seattle mourns the loss of one of its greatest sports icons, it is also celebrating the life of a man who gave so much to his community. Slick Watts may have started his journey as an underdog, but he finished it as a legend, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and inspiration that will never be forgotten.