Sports

Orlando, FL - Pat Williams, the visionary co-founder of the Orlando Magic, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 84. Williams, a monumental figure in the NBA and a beloved community leader, leaves behind a legacy of passion, perseverance, and innovation in sports management. Williams was instrumental in bringing an NBA team to Orlando, establishing the Magic in 1989. His efforts transformed the city into a basketball hub and inspired generations of fans and players alike. Known for his charismatic leadership and profound impact on the sport, Williams was a key figure in the team's early successes, including their first playoff appearance in 1994 and their NBA Finals run in 1995.

Beyond basketball, Williams was a prolific author and motivational speaker, sharing his wisdom and experiences through over 100 books. His dedication to the sport and his community earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame. Pat Williams is survived by his wife, their children, and grandchildren. His contributions to the Orlando Magic and the NBA will be remembered for generations to come, leaving an indelible mark on the world of sports. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

Williams died of complications from viral pneumonia, the Magic said in a release.Along with businessman Jimmy Hewitt, Williams started to work toward getting Orlando an NBA franchise back in 1986. A year later, the NBA Board of Governors gave an expansion franchise to the city, and on December 22, 1988, the Magic sold its 10,000th ticket to bring the team to the league officially. Pat Williams simply brought magic to Orlando,” Magic chairman Dan DeVos and CEO Alex Martins said in a joint statement. “His accomplishments will always be remembered. Armed with his ever-present optimism and unparalleled energy, he was an incredible visionary who helped transform the world of sports in multiple ways.

“From bringing the Magic to Orlando to transforming sports marketing and promotions, he was always ahead of the curve. Pat forever changed the sports landscape in Orlando. He shined a light on what those who called Orlando home already knew -- that Central Florida was a fabulous place to live, work and play.” After serving as the 76ers’ business manager in 1968, Williams ended up being general manager of the Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks before returning to Philadelphia -- where he spent 12 years as the Sixers’ GM. With Williams’ help, the 76ers won a championship in 1983. Williams moved on from Philadelphia three years later to begin his endeavours with the Magic.