UCLA to Honor Bill Walton on Feb. 23, 2025

UCLA will honor the late Bill Walton during a men's basketball game against Ohio State on February 23, 2025. Walton, who passed away in May at age 71 after battling cancer, was a key player in leading UCLA to national championships in 1972 and 1973. A halftime ceremony will be held at Pauley Pavilion, where fans will receive commemorative posters and students will get tie-dyed T-shirts, reflecting Walton's love of the Grateful Dead. Walton, a three-time Academic All-American, was known for his contributions both as a player under coach John Wooden and as a broadcaster. Current UCLA coach Mick Cronin emphasized Walton's lasting impact on the program and his role as an inspirational figure for players. The game will be nationally televised on CBS to commemorate Walton's legacy.