NBA Legend Darryl Dawkins And Moses Malone Die Within Weeks Of One Another [VIDEO]

According to WFMZ-TV News reports the iconic Darryl Dawkins passed of a sudden heart attack, Aug. 27 at age 58.  The Lehigh County Coroners office confirmed the death. In 1975, Dawkins made history when he became the first player ever drafted directly from high school to the NBA. He would play 15 seasons in the NBA, spending most of his career with the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Nets.

Darryl Dawkins leaves behind his wife Janice, and four children.  His family released a statement shortly after his sudden death saying:

"It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Darryl Dawkins, who succumbed today to a heart attack. Darryl touched the hearts and spirits of so many with his big smile and personality, ferocious dunks, but more than anything, his huge, loving heart."

In more devastating sports news, just weeks after Dawkins death was announced it was learned another NBA legend has passed away.  The legendary, three-time MVP Moses Malone, has died suddenly at the age of 60. Fox 26 in Houston reports the NBA great was set to play in a golf tournament with former teammate Calvin Murphy.  He would never make the game, as he died sometime during the night, reportedly in his sleep at a Virginia hotel.

At the height of his career, Malone lead the league with 17.6 rebounds per game for the Houston Rockets.  In 1979 he scored his first MVP award.  Malone won his second MVP when he lead the 76ers to win the NBA title in 1983.

Upon confirmation of his untimely death, the 76ers released the following statement:

"It is with a deep sense of sadness that the Sixers family mourns the sudden loss of Moses Malone. It is difficult to express what his contributions to this organization - both as a friend and player - have meant to us, the city of Philadelphia and his faithful fans. Moses holds a special place in our hearts and will forever be remembered as a genuine icon and pillar of the most storied era in the history of Philadelphia 76ers basketball.

 

No one person has ever conveyed more with so few words — including three of the most iconic in this city's history. His generosity, towering personality and incomparable sense of humor will truly be missed. We will keep his family in our thoughts and prayers and as we are once again reminded of the preciousness of life."

Moses Malone was truly one of the greatest NBA players of all time.  He played in the league for more than 10 years before retiring in 1995.  His career stats include an average of 20.3 points and 12.3 rebounds in an incredible 1,455 professional games between the ABA and NBA.

The Houston Rockets took to Twitter to offer their thoughts and condolences for the iconic player.  Both Darryl Dawkins and Moses Malone will be sorely missed by the league and their thousands of fans.  My they rest in peace.