Donald “Slick” Watts, the former Seattle SuperSonics guard and fan favorite, died on Saturday. He was 73.
Watt, who earned his nickname from his shaved head and crooked headbands, also was a popular teacher, coach and strong supporter of basketball in Seattle.
His son, Donald, announced his father’s death Saturday on X: “You did so much for so many of us. It was an honor call you pops.”
Watts, who had a stroke in 2021, had been in poor health since.
Grandson Isaiah Watts, who plays for Washington State, praised his grandfather on X: “I pray every time they see me they see you. Love you past life. I got us forever. Rest in paradise papa.”
We are saddened by the passing of Sonics icon Slick Watts. Slick was a champion for the Storm and a beloved member of the Seattle community.
Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and loved ones at this time. 💚💛 pic.twitter.com/UbNW6cJjo9
— Seattle Storm (@seattlestorm) March 15, 2025
Watts went undrafted from Xavier University (La.) and was signed by Seattle coach Bill Russell in 1973. Watts played just five seasons in Seattle, missing the Sonics’ championship in 1979.
The 6-foot-1 point guard led the NBA in steals and assists during the 1975-76 season. He averaged 8.9 points, 3.2 rebounds and 6.1 assists in his career. He also played for the New Orleans Jazz and the Houston Rockets, but Seattle was his home after retiring.
Watts became a physical education teacher in Seattle at several schools and coached basketball. He also ran a basketball academy with Donald and retired from teaching in 2017.
Watts attended University of Washington and Seattle Storm WNBA games and was an ambassador for the Sonics, even after the team moved to Oklahoma City in 2008.
The Mississippi native was named to the Sonics’ 40th anniversary team.
(Photo of Watts: Focus on Sports via Getty Images)
