Larry Bird shares heartfelt statement on Bill Walton's passing [View all]

The NBA lost a legendary player and personality on Monday as Bill Walton died at 71.

Walton, a two-time NBA champion who won a title with the Boston Celtics in 1986, passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer. Many took to social media to mourn the death of one of the most beloved personalities in sports.

Celtics great Larry Bird was among those to share a statement on Walton's passing. Here's what he wrote about his former teammate, via ESPN's Tim Bontemps:

"I am very sorry about my good friend, Bill Walton. I love him as a friend and teammate. It was a thrill for me to play with my childhood idol and together we earned an NBA Championship in 1986. He is one of the greatest ever to play the game. I am sure that all of my teammates are as grateful as I am that we were able to know Bill, he was such a joy to know and he will be sorely missed. My family and I extend our sincere condolences to the Walton family."

Link to tweet