Who was Slick Watts? Real name, health struggles and all we know about Sonics legend as he dies at 73

Basketball legend Slick Watts, originally known as Donald Earl Watts, passed away at 73.

His son, Donald, confirmed his passing on his X account. He wrote:

"You did so much for so many of us. It was an honor call you pops."

Watts had been in poor health following a stroke in 2021, reported The Sun.

Coach Bill Russell signed him to play for the Sonics in 1973 when he was an undrafted rookie. After the Sonics, the NBA icon went on to play for the New Orleans Jazz and the Houston Rockets. After retiring, he chose to settle in Seattle.

“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. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and loved ones at this time.” Seattle Storm wrote on X.

Although he spent fewer than five years with Seattle, he quickly became a recognizable figure, celebrated for his wide grin, shaved head, and quirky headbands. Here is everything you need to know about the sports legend.

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Exploring the life and career of Slick Watts

Watts attended the Henry Weather High School in Mississippi and played college basketball at Xavier in Louisiana from 1970 to 1973.

He reportedly suffered a stroke on April 9, 2021, following which his son, Donald Watts, started a fundraising campaign which Anita Gilbert organized on his behalf. According to a post on GoFundMe, it was reported that Slick needed “full-time care to navigate simple tasks in his life.”

In honor of his grandfather, Isiah Watts, who plays for the Washington State Cougars, took to his social media to pay him tribute in a heartfelt post:

“I pray every time they see me they see you. Love you past life. I got us forever. Rest in paradise papa.”

In his later years Watts taught physical education in the Seattle School District and ran a basketball academy with his son, Donald Watts. Together they coached and mentored thousands of young people in the Seattle community. He was also named to the Sonics' 40th anniversary team.