Alejandro Avila
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Former Utah Jazz center Mark Eaton has passed away at the age of 64, per the team’s announcement. Based on initial reporting, the cause of death appears related to a biking accident on Friday.
Eaton’s death was announced Friday evening after the former player went out for a bike ride and was reported missing hours later.
Eaton joined the Utah Jazz in 1982 out of UCLA and spent his eleven years in the league playing for the team, before retiring in ’93.
A prototype of the modern day big man, 7-foot centers with a swift attack both inside and outside the paint, Eaton’s stature and athleticism at 7’4″ led to a great career in Utah, while his quick feet translated on the defensive end as well.
Eaton earned All-Star honors in 1989 and received accolades for his defensive efforts, including two Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Mark Eaton’s influence is celebrated by the NBA community, leaving behind a great legacy for the Association to fondly remember for years to come.
Sad loss.
Hated hearing this. As a big Lakers fan during Showtime, I hated those matchups against the Jazz. The guy was a beast on defense.
Cool pic… him against the Washington Bullets.
Rick Mahorn in the foreground.