Pat Williams, co-founder of the Orlando Magic and a towering figure in NBA history, passed away at age 84 due to complications from viral pneumonia, leaving a legacy that transformed sports and sports marketing.

Williams, whose efforts brought an NBA team to Orlando in the late 1980s, was instrumental in shaping the Magic's identity and success. With a storied 51-year career that included pivotal roles with the Philadelphia 76ers, Chicago Bulls, and Atlanta Hawks, he left an indelible mark on professional basketball. Celebrated for his visionary contributions, Williams also enjoyed a notable stint in baseball, penned over 100 books, and was honored with multiple awards, including the Basketball Hall of Fame's Lifetime Achievement Award. His passing is a significant loss to the sports world.

Williams began his quest to bring an NBA team to Orlando in 1986, dedicating his efforts to making professional basketball a reality for the city. Just a year later, the NBA Board of Governors granted an expansion franchise to Orlando, marking the beginning of what would become a storied journey for the Magic and their fans.

The Orlando Magic officially joined the NBA on December 22, 1988. Williams' relentless drive and leadership were key factors in the successful establishment of the team. Over the next three decades, he continued to be a guiding force for the franchise, significantly contributing to its growth and presence in the league.

Throughout his illustrious 51-year career in the NBA, over 30 of which were with the Magic, Williams took on various impactful roles. He served as the business manager for the Philadelphia 76ers in 1968, laying the groundwork for a series of influential positions within the league.

Williams also held general manager roles with the Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks, and Philadelphia 76ers. A standout achievement came in 1983 when he played a vital role in constructing a championship-winning team for the 76ers, cementing his reputation as a top executive in the NBA.

Dan DeVos, Chairman of the Orlando Magic, and Alex Martins, the team's CEO, remembered Williams as a visionary who transformed sports marketing and the sports world at large. They praised his innovative approach and his ability to inspire those around him, emphasizing the lasting impact of his work.

Beyond basketball, Williams had a notable career in baseball. He attended Wake Forest University on a sports scholarship and was a three-year letterman as a catcher. His talent on the diamond led to him being signed by the Philadelphia Phillies in 1962, after which he played for two seasons with the Miami Marlins in the Florida State League.

In 1965, Williams took on the role of business manager, and later general manager, for the Spartanburg Phillies. His dual expertise in both basketball and baseball management showcased his versatile and wide-ranging contributions to sports.

Williams' achievements have been recognized with several prestigious honors. In 2012, he received the Basketball Hall of Fame's John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, an accolade celebrating his extraordinary contributions to the sport. He was also inducted into the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame, highlighting his excellence in baseball.

Outside the realm of professional sports, Williams made his mark as a prolific author, writing over 100 books on a variety of topics. His writings further demonstrated his intellectual curiosity and his passion for sharing knowledge and insights.

In addition to his feats in sports management and writing, Williams was a dedicated marathon runner. Between 1996 and 2011, he completed 58 marathons, including 13 finishes at the renowned Boston Marathon. His commitment to long-distance running reflected his enduring determination and discipline.

Pat Williams' passing marks the loss of a remarkable individual whose contributions to sports and beyond have left an enduring legacy. His diverse achievements and the positive influence he had on so many will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.