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.

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

SEATTLE — Seattle SuperSonics legend Slick Watts passed away Saturday at age 73. Watts, born in Rolling Fork, Mississippi, signed as a rookie free agent with the Sonics in 1973. He played four and a half seasons with the Sonics and also played for the New Orleans Jazz and Houston Rockets.