The Australian basketball community is in mourning with the news that media personality and ex player Corey ‘Homicide’ Williams has died aged 46.
The former National Basketball League (NBL) MVP had been battling stage four colon cancer.
Last year, Williams revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer and returned to his country of birth, America, to undergo chemotherapy in New York.
READ MORE: Former AFL star found dead at age 29
READ MORE: Fifita’s collateral damage hangs over three clubs
READ MORE: Honey Badger fakes ‘code switch’ in bizarre stunt
He later arrived back in Australia for more treatment in Melbourne. He sat courtside for an NBL game last November and attended the league’s MVP awards in February where he was honoured with a standing ovation.
Williams is best known for transforming the NBL as a gifted player and impassioned advocate for the league.
He played three seasons with the Townsville Crocodiles between 2007 and 2010 — winning the league’s MVP award in 2010 and twice leading the Crocs to the semi-finals.
Williams also played for the Melbourne Tigers (now Melbourne United) during the 2010-11 season.
Following his playing days, Williams established himself as leading commentator who did not shy away from expressing his opinions.
“Having Corey as part of the NBL commentary team was by far, one of the best decisions I ever made, and without his passion for the league and enthusiasm for the growth of the game in Australia, we simply wouldn’t be where we are today…,” NBL owner Larry Kestelman said.
“There will never be another Corey ‘Homicide’ Williams, may he rest in peace.”
Tributes have since flowed for Williams online.
