On Saturday, July 16th the Golden State Warriors and the entire NBA lost a legend. Nate Thurmond, the former Warrior passed away on Saturday morning due to a short bout with leukemia. At 74, the Hall of Famer was more than just a legend to the game of basketball, but was also a Community Relations Ambassador in San Francisco.

His name in the community and in the history books of the game is something that is equally valued. Thurmond played in the league for 14 years and was an NBA All Star for seven of them. He played with the Warriors for a majority of 11 years out of the 14. Thurmond is considered to be one of the best centers to ever play. That goes for the Warriors and in the entire league, period. Though his jersey was retired in 1978, his name and the #42 will never be forgotten.

The Warriors released this statement in respect of the legend, On Saturday:

“We’ve lost one of the most iconic figures in the history of not only our organization, but the NBA in general, with the passing of Nate Thurmond. Nate represented this franchise with class, dignity and humility as both a player and community relations ambassador for over 40 years. Without a doubt, he is one of the most beloved figures to ever wear a Warriors uniform and both a Hall of Fame player and Hall of Fame person, hence his #42 jersey hanging from the rafters at Oracle Arena. On behalf of the entire Warriors organization, our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family, including his wife, Marci. We’ll miss his presence in his customary seats at our games next season, but his legacy will live forever.”

Though Thurmond’s presence will be missed, his legacy will live on with his loved ones, the NBA as a whole, the entire Warriors community, and not to mention the devoted fans.

Rest in Peace, “Big Nate.” We send our condolences to his closest friends and loved ones.

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