Orlando Magic co-founder Pat Williams, who was one of the people responsible for bringing the NBA to Orlando, passed away this July at the age of 84. The franchise he helped create will memorialize him on its uniforms for the 2024-25 NBA season.
According to the team…
More than 35 years ago, it was Williams who turned a dream into the Orlando Magic. Williams, along with local businessman Jimmy Hewitt, began the process of bringing an NBA team to Orlando in 1986. On April 22, 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 and the Magic were born.
Like the Los Angeles Lakers are doing for Jerry West, the Magic will wear a band (they’re calling it a “patch”) on the left shoulder strap of their jerseys.
The band is black, with the initials “PW” in a thin white font. Like the Lakers, because the Magic jersey features both a maker’s mark and an ad, the memorial is smaller than both, and almost feels like an afterthought.
Orlando Magic Chairman Dan DeVos and CEO Alex Martins, following Williams’ passing said in a joint statement…
Pat Williams simply brought magic to Orlando. 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.
Upon his passing, Williams was the subject of numerous tributes and video remembrances, especially in the Orlando area, where he was not only truly beloved, but also without him, it’s possible Orlando would never have received an NBA team.
Williams’ career spanned more than 56 years, including 30-plus years with the Orlando Magic and 51 years in the NBA.
I feel like a ping pong patch would be appropriate for a memorial patch.