Australian basketball icon Corey ‘Homicide’ Williams has died aged 46.
Williams, a hugely popular media personality and former National Basketball League MVP, had been battling stage four colon cancer.
He underwent chemotherapy in New York last year and continued treatment in Melbourne in November.
The star played three seasons for the Townsville Crocodiles, and was named MVP in 2010, as well as playing for Melbourne United for a year.
He became a commentator after retiring from the sport and brought smiles to fans’ faces with his enthusiasm for the game.
He was given a standing ovation at last year’s NBL MVP awards.
Australian basketball icon Corey ‘Homicide’ Williams has died aged 46
Tributes poured in after Williams’ death was announced.
‘Corey Williams was a master of self-promotion and it made him a must-watch on the court and in front of the camera,’ sports reporter Roy Ward said.
‘I didn’t know him well but I know his friendship helped so many friends of mine believe they could do special things. That quality is a rare one.’
ESPN’s Olgun Uluc said: ‘It’s a truly enormous, tragic loss for the Australian basketball community. The NBL doesn’t reach the heights of what it is today without his presence, on and off the court.’
Broadcaster Neroli Meadows tweeted: ‘I am so glad that Corey knew what he meant to all of us. The love, the standing ovation, the hugs… he’s the one who taught me that lesson so many years ago – it stayed with me, always. Tell people you appreciate them!!!!! I appreciate you my friend…
‘Thoughts with Corey’s family, friends, fans (and foes) – the game simply won’t be the same without you.’
