Pat Williams, Orlando Magic co-founder and longtime NBA executive, dead at 84

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Longtime NBA executive and co-founder of the Orlando Magic Pat Williams died Wednesday following complications from viral pneumonia, the team announced in a statement this week. He was 84.

The team released a statement sharing the news of Williams’ passing, adding that he had "died peacefully" and "surrounded by family." 

Pat Williams of the Orlando Magic waits in the room for the 2016 NBA Draft Lottery to begin at the New York Hilton in New York, New York.  (Jennifer Pottheiser/NBAE via Getty Images)

"Pat Williams simply brought magic to Orlando," Chairman Dan DeVos and CEO Alex Martins said in a joint statement. "His accomplishments will always be remembered." 

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"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."

Born in Philadelphia and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, Williams became a household name in the NBA. His career spanned more than 50 years – the majority of which was spent with the franchise he helped establish. 

Pat Williams during Shaquille O'Neal's jersey retirement for the Orlando Magic on February 13, 2024, at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida.  (Fernando Medina/NBAE via