2024 was a year of thrilling victories and heartbreaking farewells. The world cheered on new champions and mourned the loss of beloved ones. Whether footballers or basketball players, these athletes left unforgettable impacts on their respective games and fans. Here are 15 of these late sports stars who stood out the most.
Carl Weathers
Weathers, who played Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” franchise, passed away on February 2 at 76. Before his acting career took off, Weathers was a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders. His versatility shone through in “The Mandalorian,” earning him an Emmy nomination. Weathers’ successful transition from football to Hollywood inspired many athletes to do the same.
Vontae Davis
Former NFL cornerback Vontae Davis made headlines in 2018 when he abruptly retired during a game, citing concerns about his long-term health issues. Despite this, he was found dead in his Florida home on April 1, 2024, at 35. This untimely passing triggered many discussions about player safety and mental health in professional sports.
Willie Mays
Baseball lost a true legend when Willie Mays died on June 18, 2024. Mays’ career spanned from the Negro Leagues to his final season with the New York Mets in 1973. With 660 home runs, 12 Gold Gloves, and a memorable play titled “The Catch,” Mays is often considered the greatest all-around player in baseball history. He will leave an indelible mark on the game for generations to come.
Bill Walton
Bill Walton’s passion for the game and life was contagious, making his loss unbearable for basketball fans across the globe. His career included NCAA championships with UCLA, NBA titles with the Trail Blazers and Celtics, and an MVP award. Post-basketball, he ventured into sports commentary, which endeared him to a new generation of fans. Sadly, 71-year-old Bill Walton died of cancer in May 2024.
Jerry West
If you’ve ever wondered who’s silhouette inspired the NBA logo, say hello to Jerry West. West’s impact on basketball spanned six decades as a player, coach, and executive. Known as “Mr. Clutch,” West’s on-court excellence matched his off-court intuition, helping build championship teams for the Lakers, Grizzlies, and Warriors. His death on June 12, 2024, marked the end of an era in NBA history.
Orlando Cepeda
Throughout his 17-year Major League career, Cepeda played for six different teams. He was the National League Rookie of the Year in 1958 and the National League MVP in 1967. He was also an 11-time All-Star and finished his career with 379 home runs, 1,365 RBIs, and a Baseball Hall of Fame honor in 1999. But even stars have their crosses as Cepeda passed away on June 28, succumbing to a drug addiction.
Abner Haynes
Haynes broke barriers as one of the first Black players to play college football at the now-University of North Texas. In 1960, he chose the AFL’s Dallas Texans over the NFL, legitimizing the upstart league. He also led the AFL in 875 rushing yards and nine touchdowns in its inaugural 1960 season, and this made him the league’s first Player of the Year. Before passing on July 18, Haynes remained involved in football and advocated for civil rights.
Roman Gabriel
As the first Filipino-American NFL quarterback, Roman Gabriel was a member of the Los Angeles Rams and Philadelphia Eagles for 16 seasons. In 1969, he was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player, throwing 2,549 yards and 24 touchdowns. Gabriel still holds the Rams franchise record for 154 touchdown passes. Until he died in 2024, Gabriel worked as a commentator for CBS Sports and coached in the World League of American Football.
Bud Harrelson
Bud Harrelson remained a beloved figure in the Mets throughout his life, thanks to his defensive skills and contributions to the franchise. He spent 13 of his 16 MLB seasons with the Mets, earning two All-Star selections and a Gold Glove Award. As a 1969 “Miracle Mets” team member, Bud was instrumental in his team’s World Series victory. Following the news of his battle with Alzheimer’s disease in 2018, he passed on January 11, 2024, from the same ailment.
Grayson Murray
PGA Tour golfer Grayson Murray committed suicide on May 25, 2024, at age 30. Murray displayed potential early in his career, winning the 2017 Barbasol Championship. In January 2024, he achieved a significant career milestone by winning the Sony Open in Hawaii, his second PGA Tour victory. His passing shocked the golfing world just days after he withdrew from the Charles Schwab Challenge in Texas.
Mike Brumley
A former second-round pick, Mike Brumley’s career spanned several teams, including the Cubs, Mariners, and Red Sox. His versatility as an infielder and outfielder made him a valuable player in the majors. Despite retiring from baseball, Brumley remained connected to the sport, coaching and mentoring young players for teams like the Texas Raptors and Atlanta Braves until his death in June 2024.
Chet Walker
Nicknamed “The Jet” for his speed, Walker earned seven All-Star selections and was a key player on the 1967 champion Philadelphia 76ers. His smooth playing style and consistent excellence made him a fan favorite throughout his 13-year NBA career. Walker’s impact extended beyond the court, as he became one of the first players to successfully transition into film production after retirement. After a prolonged illness, Walker died on June 8, 2024.
Josh Maravich
Josh Maravich, son of basketball legend “Pistol” Pete Maravich, died unexpectedly on June 7 at 42. Josh carried on his father’s legacy at LSU from 2001-2005, where he was known for his passionate play and deep understanding of the game. While he didn’t achieve the same level of stardom as his father, Josh equally made history, becoming an inspiration to young players at his alma mater.
Larry Allen
Known for his strength and agility, Allen was a vital part of the Dallas Cowboys’ reign in the 1990s. His dominant performances for the Cowboys earned him a place among the most outstanding offensive linemen in NFL history. Allen’s passing in June, at age 52, stunned his former teammates. He died suddenly while on vacation with his family in Mexico.
O. J. Simpson
O.J. Simpson’s life was a rollercoaster ride of fame and controversy. The Heisman Trophy winner and NFL star passed away on April 10 at 76 after battling prostate cancer. Simpson’s legacy remains complex, marked by his record-breaking football career and the infamous 1994 murder trial that stunned the nation. Despite his legal troubles, including a 9-year prison stint for armed robbery, Simpson’s impact on football is undeniable.
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