An NBA legend — and one of the sport’s first great leapers in an era far before today’s slam dunk artists — has died.
Connie Hawkins played seven years in the NBA and several more in the ABA, including four All-Star seasons with the Phoenix Suns.
He was 75 years old.
Related: Ralphie May Passes Away After Bout With Pneumonia
The exceptional athlete helped revolutionize the game in the late 1960s and early 1970s, and in his career he completely changed how players scored by sowing off long strides, incredible jumping ability, and those sweet, sweet dunks.
The Suns released a statement on Hawkins’ death (below):
“‘The Hawk’ revolutionized the game and remains to this day an icon of the sport and one of basketball’s great innovators. His unique combination of size, grace and athleticism was well ahead of its time, and his signature style of play is now a hallmark of the modern game.”
So sad — but such a legacy to leave.
Around Twitter, many in the league and around it mourned his passing (below):
Sad News: Connie Hawkins (7/17/42-10/6/17) passed away at 75; One of the great leapers in basketball history; a forerunner to Dr. J & MJ. pic.twitter.com/GAMino5HJt
— NBA History (@NBAHistory) October 7, 2017
RIP to Connie Hawkins.
One of the smoothest, most influential, and most egregiously wronged players in basketball history. pic.twitter.com/gqlU0M7sxZ
— Pro Hoops History (@ProHoopsHistory) October 7, 2017
Connie Hawkins was an awesome offensive force in one-on-one situations — a shot creator who was quick, agile and a tremendous leaper. pic.twitter.com/WcnUMtyOaV
— NBA History (@NBAHistory) October 7, 2017
Before there was ‘Doctor J’ there was ‘The Hawk,’ Connie Hawkins. pic.twitter.com/8GQnQwKRMJ
— Ruben Luna (@RubeOnRoundball) October 7, 2017
When I was a kid Connie Hawkins came to my house and took the time to act genuinely interested in every little bit of @Suns gear 6-year-old me showed him and after it was all over, he made sure we took a picture. I’ll never forget how important he made me feel. RIP Hawk pic.twitter.com/HrrHcRLF54
— Joe Cortez (@JDCortez_14) October 7, 2017
RIP Connie Hawkins. Can still see him waving that ball en route to the hoop. Check out his bio “Foul: The Connie Hawkins Story.”
— Bob Ryan (@GlobeBobRyan) October 7, 2017
So sad.
RIP, Mr. Hawkins.
Our condolences go out to his friends, family, former teammates, and loved ones.
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