Former NBA player Donald “Slick” Watts has died at the age of 73.

Watts became one of NBA’s self-made men and a fan favorite of Seattle Supersonics after gone from a non-drawn rookie in 1973 to the all-defensive first team and becoming an assists and stealing leader in 1976.

Watts’ son, Donald, who played for the University of Washington, announced his father’s death on Saturday on social media.

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“You did so much for so many of us. It was an honor call you pops,” the son said.

Watts had been in poor health since a stroke in 2021.

Watts was signed by coach Bill Russell to play for Sonics in 1973 as a non -drawn Rookie. He was with Seattle for less than five years, but became known for his wide smile, bald head and crooked headbands. He led the league in stealing in the 1975-76 season.

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Later he played for New Orleans Jazz and Houston Rockets, but made Seattle his home after his career and often attended Sonics and Washington and Seattle Storm Games.

“We are saddened by the Sonic icon Slick Watts,” the storm sent to social media. “Slick was a master of the storm and a loved member of the Seattle community.”

Grandson Isaiah Watts playing for Washington State, Submitted several photos of his grandfather.

“I pray every time they see me, they see you,” he wrote. “Love you earlier life. I got us forever. Rest in Paradise Papa.”

Slick Watts from Seattle Supersonics brings the ball up on the field against Buffalo is bravening during an NBA game at Memorial Auditorium in 1975 in Buffalo. (George Gojkovich/Getty Images)

From Rolling Fork, Mississippi, Watts starred at Grand View Junior College and Xavier from Louisiana before entering the NBA.

In his later years, Watt’s physical education taught the Seattle School District and operated a basketball academy with his son. He was appointed Sonics ’40 -Year anniversary.