Darryl Dawkins was far more than just a ferocious dunker and visitor from Planet Lovetron. The Philadelphia 76ers legend emerged as a basketball ambassador and respected mentor to today’s players once his career was finished, in the process cementing his legacy far more than his on-court performance ever could.
The hoops world was stricken with grief on Thursday once news of Dawkins’ sudden passing made the national rounds. And true to the collective sense of brotherhood he helped instill from his playing days to his final breath, “Chocolate Thunder” was remembered by the league in the sweeping, emotional manner that befits his never-ending status as a NBA icon.
Commissioner Adam Silver beautifully summed up Dawkins’ impact on the league.
The Philadelphia 76ers’ community, of which Dawkins remained a visible member long after he left the team in 1982, hold him in a special place.
“The Sixers family is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of an absolute legend, Darryl Dawkins,” Sixers CEO Scott O’Neil said in a statement. “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.”
An icon on and off the court. Chocolate Thunder was one of a kind. pic.twitter.com/6T3PFwLMd0
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) August 27, 2015
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
RIP Chocolate Thunder pic.twitter.com/WFFCPqeELk
— Allen Iverson (@alleniverson) August 27, 2015
Players young and old, opposing and allied, were deeply saddened by Dawkins’ passing. His friendship with Magic Johnson, for instance, was just as profound as his relationship with Karl-Anthony Towns.
So sad to hear that my friend, NBA Legend Darryl Dawkins aka "Chocolate Thunder" passed away.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) August 27, 2015
Darryl Dawkins' bigger than life personality will be missed by all. He was a good friend and I will miss him dearly.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) August 27, 2015
Terrible news about Darryl Dawkins. He helped pave the way for today's game & today's players. RIP Chocolate Thunder! pic.twitter.com/dCzgTaHBEu
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) August 27, 2015
https://instagram.com/p/65f8LozBPq/?taken-by=reggiemillertnt
Rest In Peace Darryl Dawkins aka Chocolate Thunder pic.twitter.com/0FPKTUel6I
— SHAQ (@SHAQ) August 27, 2015
#RIPDarrylDawkins #ChocolateThunder
— Kobe Bryant (@kobebryant) August 27, 2015
R.I.P to Orlando florida's own "Chocolate Thunder" Darryl Dawkins. You will be missed my friend. You paved … http://t.co/NXoiej1nDP
— Vince Carter (@mrvincecarter15) August 27, 2015
The legend Darryl Dawkins has passed away. My condolences
to his family and friends. I had the pleasure to know him. RIP #ChocolateThunder— Pau Gasol (@paugasol) August 28, 2015
https://instagram.com/p/65g0AuKi6m/?taken-by=dwighthoward
https://instagram.com/p/65nr04gHDU/?taken-by=boogiecousins
I'm going to miss you so much Uncle Darryl. There will never be another Chocolate Thunder. Love you so much and going to miss you so much..
— Karl-Anthony Towns (@KarlTowns) August 27, 2015
Rest in peace, Darryl. You’ll be remembered forever.
