Former NBA Player Darryl Dawkins Dies Of Heart Attack

At the age of 58, former NBA legend Darryl Dawkins passed away at 11:19 in the morning on Thursday, according to NY Daily News on the same day. His family gave a statement, confirming the cause - heart attack.

"It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Darryl Dawkins, who succumbed today to a heart attack," Dawkins' family said. "Darryl touched the hearts and spirits of so many with his big smile and personality, ferocious dunks, but more than anything, his huge, loving heart."

"His family, wife Janice, children Dara, Tabitha, Nicholas and Alexis, along with countless family, friends, and fans, all mourn his loss. More than anything Darryl accomplished in his basketball career as the inimitable 'Chocolate Thunder,' he was most proud of his role and responsibility as a husband and father."

Dawkins was the fifth overall pick during the 1975 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers. He played 14 seasons for the 76ers, New Jersey Nets, Utah Jazz, and Detroit Pistons, according to an article released by ABC News on Thursday.

He appeared in 726 games during regular NBA seasons, wherein he recorded an average of 12 points and 6.1 rebounds. Dawkins was known for his dunking ability. Singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder gave Dawkins his nickname "Chocolate Thunder."

Former NBA player and now mayor of Sacramento Kevin Johnson expressed his sentiment on the death of Dawkins.

Johnson tweeted: "A great man, entertainer, athlete and ferocious dunker. He will be missed but not forgotten."

Houston Rockets Dwight Howard also grieved the death of the basketball legend. Howard posted a photo of Dawkins on his Instagram account on Thursday.

He captioned the post: "You were one of my favorite players of all time. You were very inspirational to a lot of young players. Thank u for the long talks and great memories. I can't believe that you're gone. But you are in a better place. You were the originator of the dunk."

76ers CEO Scott O'Neil also said that the entire team are saddened because of what happened. He added that they would miss Dawkins' "endearing charm, infectious smile and unparalleled sense of humor."

"We've lost a dear friend and an iconic figure, both on and off the court," O'Neil said in a statement. "We remember fondly not only his thunderous dunks, but more importantly his powerful presence and personality."

"'Chocolate Thunder' will always have a special place in our hearts. His family is in our thoughts and prayers."