Bill Walton facing backlash for 'deplorable and inexcusable' use of derogatory term against dwarves

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ESPN college basketball analyst Bill Walton has become well known for his colorful commentary, but some think he went too far Thursday night.

During halftime of Arizona State's 77-72 win over USC, Walton used the term "midget" twice when discussing the in-game host in the arena and his broadcast partner.

"He does not need a little chair, because he is a giant in a world of shriveling midgets. And speaking of shriveling midgets, what was your name again?" he asked play-by-play announcer Dave Pasch.

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Sportscaster and former NBA player Bill Walton before a game between the Kentucky Wildcats and the Utah Utes Dec. 18, 2019, in Las Vegas. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

"What's wrong with you," Pasch replied, later adding he wasn't sure "what you consumed at halftime."

The Little People of America, a nonprofit organization "that provides support and information to people of short stature and their families," caught wind of Walton's language and was not happy with what it heard.

Sportscaster and former NBA player Bill Walton attends a game between the Washington Huskies and USC Trojans during the Pac-12 tournament quarterfinals at T-Mobile Arena March 10, 2022, in Las Vegas. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

"Those who use the term midget or any terminology that further stigmatizes people born with dwarfism are asked to educate themselves to eradicate this word," the organization said in a statement to TMZ Sports, adding that it was "deplorable and inexcusable."

The organization added it wants the former NBA player to apologize and not use the word again. It also challenged Pasch to "speak up."

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