Follow usThe former NBA star, Felton Spencer, was announced dead by his sister, Tammy Pollock, on Sunday afternoon at the age of 55.
Spencer played at the University of Louisville from 1986-90 and was an integral part of that team at the time. Playing in a center position, he contributed to 1, 168 points and 694 rebounds throughout his career. His field goal percentage (62,8 %) is still a record-high for the Louisville team.
“It was befitting that he received excellent care in his final hours from the providers at the University of Louisville Hospital, his alma mater that he loved so dearly,” Pollock wrote on Twitter.
“Our family thanks them and everyone who participated in his care. We are proud of all he did on the court and in his personal life. He was a kind, gentle giant whose physical presence will be sorely missed. While we are heartbroken, we are comforted by your thoughts and prayers.”
Louisville’s current coach, Kenny Payne, who played three seasons alongside the ex-NBA star, expressed his condolences to the family in a Tweeter message.
We’re heartbroken by the passing of UofL great Felton Spencer. Spencer was the Cardinals’ all-time leader in career field goal percentage, the 6th overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft, & a beloved member of the Louisville community. Our thoughts & prayers are with his loved ones. pic.twitter.com/jalKAnWpK9
— Louisville Men's Basketball (@LouisvilleMBB) March 12, 2023
“My heart is broken today hearing about my brother Felton,” Payne wrote. “My love and prayers go out to Momma Betty, his sisters and brother Mac. All Cardinals please put his family in our prayers.”
After Louisviller, Spencer played for Minnesota until 1993. He was selected in the NBA All-Rookie second team in his debut season.
After 1993 he played three seasons for the Jazz, three with the Warriors, one with the Spurs, and two with the Knicks before hanging up his boots in 2002.
