The NBA has lost one of the best big men ever to play the game.

Former center Bill Walton, who played in the league from 1974 to 1988, passed away on Monday, May 27, at 71.

The 6-foot-11 big man had been facing a prolonged battle with cancer, according to the NBA, who announced the news.

"Bill Walton was truly one of a kind. As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the center position. His unique all-around skills made him a dominant force," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.

Walton passed away surrounded by his loved ones, as per his family. He is survived by his wife Lori and their sons Adam, Nate, Chris, and Luke, a former NBA player and current assistant coach for the Cavaliers.

Bill Walton's legacy

Born and raised in La Mesa, California, Walton first became a dominant college player for the UCLA Bruins under John Wooden, leading them to the 1972 and 1973 national titles.

Walton was then selected by the Portland Trail Blazers with the first overall pick in 1974. He led the franchise to its only NBA title in 1977, winning Finals MVP.

He then spent four injury-plagued seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Clippers from 1979 to 1985 before rejuvenating with the Boston Celtics from 1985 to 1988, winning a final ring in 1986.

Walton was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993 and is a member of the NBA's 50th and 75th anniversary teams.