Pat Williams, co-founder of the Orlando Magic, has sadly passed away at the age of 84

Pat Williams, co-founder of the Orlando Magic, has sadly passed away at the age of 84, as announced by the NBA team. The cause of his death was complications from viral pneumonia. Williams was a true visionary and brought immense enthusiasm and energy to everything he did. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Orlando Magic, and his unwavering passion inspired everyone associated with the team.

With a distinguished career spanning 51 years in the NBA, including over 30 years with the Magic, Williams made significant contributions to the sport and the city of Orlando. His tenure as the business manager of the Philadelphia 76ers marked the beginning of his NBA journey in 1968. He later served as the general manager for the Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks, and the 76ers. In 1987, Williams helped Orlando secure an NBA team, and two years later, the Magic embarked on their inaugural season.

Apart from his accomplishments in basketball, Pat Williams was a talented baseball player. His skills earned him a scholarship at Wake Forest University, where he played as a catcher and eventually joined the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame. Williams even had a stint with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Miami Marlins in the Florida State League before transitioning into front-office roles with Miami and the Spartanburg Phillies. His exceptional efforts earned him recognition as Minor League Executive of the Year by The Sporting News in 1967.

In addition to his sports career, Williams was an authoritative author, having written over 100 books. Furthermore, he completed an impressive 50 marathons during his lifetime, showcasing his unwavering drive and perseverance.

Pat Williams leaves behind a loving family including his wife Ruth and their 19 children. His passing is a significant loss for the NBA community, Orlando Magic, and all those who were fortunate enough to have been influenced by his boundless optimism and transformative vision. His remarkable legacy as a visionary leader and influential figure in sports will be cherished and remembered.

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