Gus Williams, the NBA legend who led the Sonics to their only championship, has passed away at the age of 71.

Gus Williams, a two-time NBA All-Star and the leader of the Seattle SuperSonics to their only NBA championship, has passed away at the age of 71.

Nearly five years after suffering a debilitating stroke, Williams passed away in a care facility in Baltimore. The cause of his death was not immediately known, according to The Seattle Times.

Peter Vecsey, a longtime sports writer, reported on Thursday that Williams' brother stated that the former basketball player's body "broke down" in the last few days. Additionally, the funeral will take place in Mount Vernon, New York, which is Williams' hometown.

In the 1975 NBA Draft, the Golden State Warriors selected Williams in the second round. That year, he was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team and came in second place in Rookie of the Year voting.

In 1977, after playing two seasons with the Warriors, he signed with the Sonics and soon became known as one of the most dynamic guards of his era.

In 1979, the Sonics won their only championship title with the help of their former USC standout, who led the team with an average of 26.7 points during the playoffs.

Despite sitting out the 1980 season due to a contract dispute, Williams returned the next year to finish fifth in MVP voting and win NBA Comeback Player of the Year.

The NBA community expressed grief on social media after learning about Williams' passing.

In 1987, Williams retired from playing basketball after one season with the Atlanta Hawks. In 2004, his jersey was retired by the Sonics.

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