August 27, 2015
In some very sad news for everyone associated with the Sixers, Darryl Dawkins has died at 58-years old. Dawkins' death was first reported by WFMZ up in the Lehigh Valley:
Darryl Dawkins, known for his thunderous dunks and flamboyant nickname, has died. A source confirms that Dawkins died today. Following his professional playing career, Dawkins made his home in the Lehigh Valley.
Dawkins' death was confirmed to the Associated Press by the Lehigh County coroner's office
The man affectionately known as "Chocolate Thunder" was the first NBA player drafted directly out of high school in 1975 when the Sixers selected him with the fifth overall pick in that year's draft. Over a 14-year NBA career, he averaged 12.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. Dawkins was a part of three Sixers teams ('77, '80, and '82) that advanced to the NBA Finals. He was traded to the New Jersey Nets before the 1982-83 season, and the rest of his career included stops in Utah and Detroit.
From an on-court perspective, Dawkins was most known for his ability to shatter backboards on dunks. He is still known as one of the most powerful dunkers in the history of basketball:
Off the court, Dawkins will be remembered for an outgoing and infectious personality. Ahead of his time, he gave himself plenty of creative nicknames like Sir Slam and Dr. Dunkenstein. Dawkins still remained very active with both the NBA and Sixers after his playing career ended. Tributes have already started on social media, and all of them have unsurprisingly been overwhelmingly positive. Here are some from just the Sixers family:
Condolences to the family of Darryl Dawkins, a great man! Your smile personality and energy will truly be missed!!!
— Allen Iverson (@alleniverson) August 27, 2015
Darryl Dawkins was an icon, as a Sixer legend but more as a person. He will be truly missed by all. RIP #ChocolateThunder
— Jahlil Okafor (@JahlilOkafor) August 27, 2015
Man Darryl Dawkins was the 1st guy I had ever seen a shatter an ENTIRE a backboard....
— Rich Holmes (@Rich_Holmes22) August 27, 2015
@Sixers Darryl Dawkins: much more than just #'s. #lovetron #chocolatethunder #brokenbackboards #straightouttahighschool #rip
— Marc Zumoff (@marczumoff) August 27, 2015
Sixers CEO Scott O'Neil also issued a statement about Dawkins:
“The Sixers family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of an absolute legend, Darryl Dawkins. We’ve lost a dear friend and an iconic figure, both on and off the court. We remember fondly not only his thunderous dunks, but more importantly his powerful presence and personality. Simply put, Darryl Dawkins was beloved—by his family, friends, former teammates and his fans all over the globe. His endearing charm, infectious smile and unparalleled sense of humor will be sorely missed. ‘Chocolate Thunder’ will always have a special place in our hearts. His family is in our thoughts and prayers.”
Rest in peace, Chocolate Thunder. Here is hoping you make it back to Lovetron.
