LONG LIVE MAGIC PAT
“We have peace through our broken hearts knowing he’s in the arms of Jesus. He was the best husband, father and grandfather and brother anyone could ask for — a warrior, a hero, a visionary, but most importantly, a larger than life follower of Jesus.”
In April 1987, the NBA Board of Governors granted an expansion franchise to Orlando, and on December 22, 1988, the Magic sold their 10,000th season ticket, thus fulfilling their commitment to the NBA. Decades later, the Orlando Magic are regularly discussed as one of the most exciting, young teams in the NBA’s Eastern Conference – and one of the most valuable franchises in Florida. Just last season, Paolo and the Magic shocked the league, forcing a game seven in a playoff series that no one predicted them to make.
These moments were largely made possible because of a visionary named Pat Williams.
A proven leader, whose resume included successful stops in destinations like Chicago, and a champion title-run in Philadelphia. Before his retirement, Mr. Williams’ career spanned over 56 years, including more than 30 years with the Orlando Magic.
Orlando Magic Chairman Dan DeVos and CEO Alex Martins have released a joint statement.
“His accomplishments will always be remembered. Armed with his ever-present optimism and unparalleled energy, he was an incredible visionary who helped transform the world of sports in multiple ways. From bringing the Magic to Orlando, to transforming sports marketing and promotions, he was always ahead of the curve. Pat forever changed the sports landscape in Orlando. He shined a light on what those who called Orlando home already knew – that Central Florida was a fabulous place to live, work and play. We all owe him a debt of gratitude and he will certainly be missed, but never forgotten.”
Late Wednesday night, Orlando sports icon Pat Williams, passed way, at the age of 84.
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) July 18, 2024
In 2012, Pat Williams was honored, and present with the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
A statement from the Williams family: pic.twitter.com/jBgklzrV3U
— Orlando Magic PR (@Magic_PR) July 18, 2024
Prayers to Pat Williams and his family!! A truly amazing man with a heart of Gold. May God comfort his loved ones! I know without a doubt he passed knowing Jesus Christ as his lord and Savior! A full life, lived well!! ????????????️
— Jonathan Judah Isaac (@JJudahIsaac) July 18, 2024
A TRUE MAN OF THE MOUND
A pure baseball enthusiast, Pat Williams was a life-long champion of the sport. Beyond his countless contributions to the sport of basketball, Mr. Williams is well-known to have another love. As a former three-year letterman for the Wake Forest University in North Caroline, culminating in his election to the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame.
He was also president of Orlando’s Double-A Southern League team from 1990 to 1993. In November 2019, the visionary that brought the Magic to Orlando, launched a new campaign based on his strongly-held belief that the City Beautiful should have a professional baseball team. Whether it be a relocation of the long-embattled Tampa Bay franchise or the birth of a fresh, new dream straight from the imagination of Mr. Pat Williams.
A dream, yet unrealized, that will forever be included in the legacy of a true man of the mound.
.@Dennis3DScott on Pat Williams ???? pic.twitter.com/2X4ilBiY64
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) July 19, 2024
Pat Williams
THE CONVERSATION.