Mavericks CEO Rick Welts Reflects on Loss of Sonics Legends Slick Watts And Gus Williams

Two Seattle SuperSonics legends died earlier this year, including Gus’ The Wizard’ Williams, the electric scoring guard who helped lead the Sonics to their only NBA championship in 1979;

Donald Earl ‘Slick’ Watts was a beloved fan favorite who captured Seattle’s hearts with his style, smile, and spirit.

Dallas Mavericks CEO and former long-time NBA executive Rick Welts, who spent much of his early career with the Seattle SuperSonics, discussed the emotional toll of losing two icons who were so crucial to the franchise and the city in an exclusive interview with LandonBuford.com.

“It’s a tough time for Sonics fans, right?” Welts said Wednesday. “They brought such different things to the game. You know, Gus was part of our amazing championship team in 1979 and just brought joy every time he came on the court. Slick was the most unpredictable player I think that’s ever been in the NBA.”

Earlier this year, Gus Williams, who was 71, passed away. Williams’ dazzling play and quick first step made him known as ‘The Wizard’ and the driving force behind the Sonics’ 1979 title run. He spent six seasons in Seattle, averaging 20.3 points per game, including a career-high 23.4 points during the 1981-82 season.

Watts’ legacy in Seattle was cemented after he finished runner-up in Rookie of the Year voting as a second-round pick by the Golden State Warriors in 1975. In 1986-87, he played for the Atlanta Hawks in his final NBA season.

Gus had this smoothness, this joy that came through every time he played,” said Welts. “He made the game look easy, and he gave Seattle something to believe in.”

Last month, Watts’ son announced that Donald’ Slick’ Watts had passed away at the age of 73. Watts, renowned for his signature headbands and bald head, was more than just a basketball player. He was also a community icon.

Bill Russell signed Slick Watts in 1973 after going undrafted from Xavier University. During the 1975-76 season, he proved tenacious and determined by leading the NBA in assists and steals.

“Slick had no right to be an NBA player, and worked his way into, you know, being a really significant guard,” said Welts. “That classic headband and that smile of his—so infectious. He made people feel like they belonged. He gave everything to the city.”

Watts remained a visible and effective presence in Seattle long after playing, despite his short time with the Sonics, which was less than five years.

He taught physical education, coached youth basketball, and launched a basketball academy with his son, Donald Watts Jr., who was also a standout at the University of Washington.

Watts frequently attended Seattle Storm and UW Huskies games and never wavered in affection for his beloved city.

The grandson of his grandfather, Isaiah Watts, who is now a rising player at Washington State, delivered a heartfelt message:

“I pray every time they see me, they see you. Love you past life. I got us forever. Rest in paradise papa.”

Rick Welts, a rising star in the Sonics organization before becoming one of the NBA’s most influential executives, stressed both men’s unique personalities and purposes.

“They’ll both be missed,” he said solemnly. “Slick was community. Gus was a champion. And both were Sonics forever.”

Seattle’s basketball identity is still shaped by the memories of legends like Gus Williams and Slick Watts, even as they call for the return of their NBA franchise.

Their legacy of excellence, resilience, and unwavering love for Seattle will live on in every headband worn, every jump shot taken, and every fan who ever dreamed of the green and gold Sonics.

Landon Buford

Landon Buford is an accomplished sports and entertainment journalist based in Richardson, Texas, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA, WNBA, NFL, WWE, MLB, and the entertainment industry. Known for delivering high-impact stories and headline-making interviews, Buford has earned a global audience through content that blends insider access with compelling storytelling.

He previously served as director of editorial and brand communications at PlayersTV, where he helped shape the platform’s editorial voice and brand identity. He is also the founder and editor-in-chief of LandonBuford.com—an independent outlet with more than 1.6 million views and syndication from major platforms including Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated and Yahoo Sports. Buford’s interviews with stars like Gary Payton, Kevin Durant, Mark Cuban and Chris Paul showcase his talent for meaningful, in-depth conversations.

His bylines have appeared in Sports Illustrated, Forbes, Heavy.com, Meta’s Bulletin and One37pm, where he has contributed exclusive interviews, breaking news and cultural insights. At Heavy.com, his work drew more than a million views in just eight months, and at One37pm, it contributed to record-breaking traffic numbers.

His work highlights the intersection of sports, fashion, music, and entrepreneurship—showcasing how athletes and entertainers use their platforms to inspire change, influence trends, and shape culture beyond the game. Landon has interviewed a wide range of figures from the NBA, NFL, and entertainment industries, consistently bringing authentic voices and untold stories to the forefront.

In addition to his journalism, Buford is an entrepreneur and content creator, dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and driving meaningful conversations across media platforms. His passion for storytelling, culture, and innovation continues to make him a respected voice in the evolving landscape of sports and entertainment media.