Former Knicks center, Felton Spencer Died at the age of 55
Felton Spencer, a renowned basketball player from Louisville who played professionally in the NBA for 12 years and ended his career with the Knicks, passed away on Sunday as announced by his alma mater. He was 55 years old. Spencer’s sister, Tammy Pollock, shared the sad news on Twitter, informing that her brother passed away calmly on Sunday afternoon.
“Our beloved Felton Spencer – former @uofl basketball legend, retired 12 year NBA veteran and 6th pick in the 1990 NBA draft, and former assistant college coach – passed away peacefully this afternoon,” Pollock wrote.
“It was befitting that he received excellent care in his final hours from the providers at the University of Louisville Hospital, his Alma mater that he loved so dearly,” Pollock
“Our family thanks them and everyone who participated in his care,” she said.
“We are proud of all he did on the court and in his personal life. He was a kind, gentle giant whose physical presence will be sorely missed. While we are heartbroken, we are comforted by your thoughts and prayers.”
In a touching tribute on Twitter, Louisville men’s basketball expressed deep sorrow and devastation upon learning about Felton Spencer’s passing. The news has left a gaping hole in their hearts and they are truly heartbroken by this immense loss.
“Spencer was the Cardinals’ all-time leader in career field goal percentage, the 6th overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft, & a beloved member of the Louisville community. Our thoughts & prayers are with his loved ones.”
Rex Chapman, a former NBA player, recently shared nostalgic memories of his long-standing friendship with Felton Spencer, which began many years ago in their home state of Kentucky. The two had forged a bond that lasted for decades, and Chapman now fondly recollects their shared experiences and the great times they had together.
“Felton Spencer was one of the sweetest, kindest, people I’ve ever known,” Chapman wrote. “Grew up in KY together & have known each other since age 15.
“Played on the last Kentucky all-star team to sweep Indiana together. Played against one another in college & the pros. A sad day.”
During his illustrious career in the NBA, Felton Spencer donned the jerseys of several teams such as the Timberwolves, Jazz, Magic, Warriors, Spurs, and Knicks, where he left an indelible mark with his impressive skills on the court. Across 12 seasons, he was able to amass an average of 5.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, showcasing his remarkable talent and dedication to the sport.
“We remember former Warriors center Felton Spencer, who passed away today at the age of 55,” the Warriors PR account tweeted.
“A native of Louisville, Kentucky, Felton played three seasons with the Warriors (1996-99) during a 12-year NBA career. Our condolences to his family and friends.”
Gordon Chiesa, a former assistant coach of the Jazz who had the privilege of coaching Felton Spencer from 1993-96, fondly recalled how Spencer’s remarkable humility and positive energy greatly enriched the entire team. His presence was truly uplifting and inspiring, leaving a lasting impression on his fellow players and coaches alike.
“I am saddened by the passing of former Utah Jazz player Felton Spencer,” Chiesa wrote. “I had the privilege to coach Felton from 1993-96, where he was standout rebounder, interior defender and competitor. His humility and spirit enhanced our squad. U of Louisville proud, R.I.P. in hoop heaven!”
Felton Spencer was a force to be reckoned with during his time at Louisville, where he showcased his incredible basketball skills across 134 games from 1986-90. His towering height of 7-foot-3 made him an imposing figure on the court, and he led the Cardinals to three consecutive Metro Conference tournament victories and two Sweet 16 appearances. Even today, his impressive career field-goal percentage of 62.8% remains a record at Louisville.
After being drafted sixth overall by the Timberwolves in the 1990 NBA draft, Spencer spent his first three seasons with Minnesota, before joining the Knicks for two more seasons. He eventually retired from the league in 2002 but continued to impart his basketball knowledge as an assistant coach at Spalding University and Bellarmine University.
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