Slick Watts obit

Former Sonic and Seattle fixture Donald 'Slick' Watts passes away at 73

Known for his broad smile, bald head and crooked headbands, Watts led the league in steals during the 1975-76 season. 

He was not on the list.

SEATTLE (AP) — Donald “Slick” Watts, a fan favorite for the SuperSonics and later a beloved teacher and coach in Seattle, has died. He was 73.

Watts’ son Donald, who played for Washington, announced his father’s death Saturday on social media, writing: “You did so much for so many of us. It was an honor call you pops.” Watts had been in poor health following a stroke in 2021.

Watts was signed by coach Bill Russell to play for the Sonics in 1973 as an undrafted rookie. He was with Seattle for less than five years, but became a fixture known for his broad smile, bald head and crooked headbands. He led the league in steals in the 1975-76 season.

He later played for the New Orleans Jazz and the Houston Rockets but made Seattle his home following his career and frequently attended Sonics events, as well as Washington and Seattle Storm games.

“We are saddened by the passing of Sonics icon Slick Watts,” the Storm posted to social media. “Slick was a champion for the Storm and a beloved member of the Seattle community.”

Grandson Isaiah Watts, who plays for Washington State, posted several photos of his grandfather. “I pray every time they see me they see you. Love you past life. I got us forever. Rest in paradise papa.”

From Rolling Fork, Mississippi, Watts starred at Grand View Junior College and Xavier of Louisiana before entering the NBA.

In his later years Watts taught physical education in the Seattle School District and ran a basketball academy with his son. He was named to the Sonics’ 40th anniversary team.

"Slick" Watts originally attended Grand View Junior College but transferred to Xavier University of Louisiana in 1970, where he played college basketball for three years under coach Bob Hopkins, and alongside his teammate, future ABA and NBA star Bruce Seals.

For the 1972 season, Watts and Seals led the Gold Rush to its first NAIA District 30 Men's Basketball championship defeating Nicholls State University 85–83, before losing to Westmont in the 1972 NAIA basketball tournament semi-finals 71–59.

During his final season, Watts led the Gold Rush to their second consecutive NAIA District 30 Championship, defeating Dillard University 101–80. In the 1973 NAIA basketball tournament Watts and his teammates upset Sam Houston State University, 67–60, in the second round. At the time, the Bearkats were ranked first in the country in all college division polls and had gone 34 games, over a two-year period, without a loss. The Xavier Gold Rush eventually lost in the semi-finals to Maryland-Eastern Shore 87–80.