Seattle sports fans are waking up to some sad news today . Word is out that Donald "Slick" Watts a true icon of Seattle basketball and a beloved figure in the community has passed away at the age of 73. If you know Seattle sports you know Slick Watts . He wasn't just a player he was a vibe a legend and a guy who totally embodied the spirit of the Sonics.
From Rookie Free Agent to Sonics Star: Slick Watts' Amazing Basketball Journey
Born way back in Rolling Fork Mississippi Slick Watts' path to Seattle stardom wasn't exactly a straight line. He wasn't a high draft pick or some hyped prospect. Nope Slick made it the hard way grinding and proving himself every step of the way. He signed with the Seattle Super Sonics as a rookie free agent way back in 1973. Think about that for a second a rookie free agent becoming a legend. That's pure hustle.
And hustle is exactly what Slick brought to the court every single night. He played point guard with a style all his own. He was known for his tough defense his knack for steals and just an all-around gritty game. He wasn't the flashiest scorer but he made plays he set up his teammates and he made the Sonics a better team every time he stepped on the floor.
Slick played with the Sonics for four and a half seasons becoming a fan favorite in no time. He later played for the New Orleans Jazz and Houston Rockets rounding out a solid NBA career. But for Seattle he will always be a Sonic.
The Headband the Hustle the Heart: What Made Slick Watts So Special?
Okay let's be real part of Slick's legend was definitely those headbands. They were iconic! Colorful off-center totally Slick. It was a look no one else could pull off and it just added to his unique personality and style. It wasn't just a fashion statement though it was Slick being Slick original and unforgettable.
But beyond the headbands it was his hustle that really resonated with Seattle fans. This was a city that loved players who worked hard who gave it their all and Slick Watts was the definition of that. He was a blue-collar player in a blue-collar town and the fans adored him for it.
He wasn't just about basketball either. Slick became a beloved figure in Seattle for his work in the community too. After hanging up his NBA jersey after the 1978-79 season due to injury he didn't leave Seattle behind. He became a physical education teacher at local elementary schools shaping young lives and inspiring kids. He also coached basketball at Franklin High School passing on his knowledge and passion for the game to the next generation.
Slick Watts retired from teaching and coaching in 2017 leaving behind a legacy that went way beyond the basketball court. He was a champion for Seattle in every sense of the word.
Seattle Remembers and Celebrates Slick Watts' Legacy
The Seattle Storm Seattle's WNBA team posted a heartfelt message online saying "We are saddened by the passing of Sonics icon Slick Watts. Slick was a champion for the Storm and a beloved member of the Seattle community." That really sums it up. He wasn't just a Sonics legend he was a Seattle legend period.
As the news spreads across Seattle and the basketball world expect to hear many more stories and tributes to Slick Watts. He was one of those guys who touched people's lives both on and off the court. He will be remembered for his unique style his relentless hustle and most importantly his big heart. Seattle has lost a true original.
Slick Watts: Key Facts and Career Highlights
- Born: Rolling Fork Mississippi 1951
- NBA Rookie Debut: 1973 with Seattle SuperSonics (as a free agent)
- Seattle Sonics Years: 1973-1978
- Other NBA Teams: New Orleans Jazz Houston Rockets
- Signature Style: Colorful off-center headbands
- Career After NBA: Physical Education Teacher Seattle Elementary Schools Basketball Coach Franklin High School
- Retirement: 2017 (from teaching and coaching)
- Passed Away: 2025 Age 73
- Legacy: Seattle sports icon community hero beloved figure known for hustle heart and distinctive style.
Rest in Peace Slick: Thank You for the Memories Seattle
So Seattle raise a glass or maybe rock a headband in honor of Slick Watts. He was a special one a true Seattle sports original. He will be deeply missed but his impact on the city and the game of basketball will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Slick and thank you for all the memories.