Former Seattle Sonic Maurice Lucas passed away today at 58 after battling bladder cancer for the past two years.
By no means will the former NBA all star be widely remembered for his year (1986-87) with the Seattle Supersonics, but it was that year when his relationship with former Sonics player and coach Nate McMillan began long before becoming McMillan's assistant with the Portland Trail Blazers.
From Dave McKall of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review upon Lucas' re-hiring with the Blazers in 2005:
Former Schenley star Lucas happy to be back in the NBA - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
"Maurice Lucas was an established veteran in Seattle my rookie season. I gained immediate respect for his ability to communicate and mentor young NBA players," Portland coach and former Seattle SuperSonics star Nate McMillan said. "From that season, we've formed a lifelong friendship. I look forward to watching him work with our young team and sharing his expertise with the post players."
Lucas is survived by his wife, Pamela, sons David and Maurice II and daughter Kristin.
For more on Lucas, visit Dave's extended tribute at Blazersedge.