May

15

Gone Far Too Soon! Former NBA And Jazz Legend Wayman Tisdale Passes At 44

Posted by Jeff Sack under NBA News, NBA Off The Court Issues 

The “Associated Press” reported Friday that former NBA legend and Jazz great Wayman Tisdale passed away Friday morning at St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Tisdale who had touched may in the world of sports and music was just 44 years old. He passed away after succumbing to a battle with cancer which claimed part of his right leg last year. Tisdale was found to have cancer in his leg after he suffered a break in February of 2007. Doctors thought that the best way to defeat the cancer was to amputate the leg which they did in an operation last August.

Tisdale played for the Indiana Pacers from 1985-1989, the Sacramento Kings from 1989-1994, and finished his career in the Association with the Phoenix Suns retiring in 1997. The 6?9” native of Tulsa, averaged over 15  points, 6 boards per game during his career. After retiring from the Association he went onto a successful second career as a jazz bass guitarist. He released  eight albums during his musical career.

The former Oklahoma Sooner hoops star was a very spiritual man and the statement that he released last year after having his leg amputated reflected that. Tisdale in a statement released after his surgery stated “This may sound drastic, but I have put it in God’s hands and now have peace, knowing that this is the best way to put this disease in check. I have complete faith that with the Lord’s blessings this surgery will eliminate the cancer from my body and I’ll soon be back on the road doing what I do best!” Unfortunately that was not meant to be.

I have seen first hand at Slam Dunk Central the support from the fans that Wayman generated. Since writing about his battle with cancer last year, we have been deluged with e-mails from fans of his with words of encouragement and prayer. Tisdale brought great pleasure to many during his far too short a stint on this planet. Our condolences and thoughts go out to his family and friends during this trying time.

© Copyright 2009 thesackattack.net


Updates, Fresh From the Oven, Straight to Your Inbox

Comments

Leave a Reply