Hall of Famer and Basketball Legend Moses Malone Dies at Age of 60 Years Old

Legendary pro Basketball Hall of Famer and three-time NBA MVP, Moses Malone, died in his sleep on Sunday in Norfolk, VA, at the age of 60 years old.

According to ESPN, Malone's body was discovered when he failed to report to a celebrity golf tournament in which he was scheduled to play. Det. Jeffrey Scott of the Norfolk Police Department verified that Malone died in a hotel room in Norfolk. Scott claimed that there was no indication of foul play.

"We are stunned and deeply saddened by the passing of Hall of Famer Moses Malone, an NBA legend gone far too soon," NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "Known to his legions of fans as the 'Chairman of the Boards,' Moses competed with intensity every time he stepped on the court.

"With three MVPs and an NBA championship, ge was among the most dominant centers ever to play the game and one of the best players in the history of the NBA and the ABA. Even more than his prodigious talent, we will miss his friendship, his generosity, his exuberant personality, and the extraordinary work ethic he brought to the game throughout his 21-year pro career. Our thoughts are with Moses' family and friends during this difficult time."

Malone was drafted by Utah's Stars of the ABA in 1974. The 6-foot-10 center went pro in 1976, where he played for five seasons with the Houston Rockets before joining the Philadelphia 76ers in 1982. The 76ers won the 1982-83 NBA championship as Malone teamed with Julius Erving. Malone averaged 31.9 points and 12.8 rebounds during the playoff run.

According to USA Today, as a pro-NBA center, Malone played for eight different teams over 20 NBA seasons: Buffalo Braves, Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Bullets, Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks and the San Antonia Spurs. He led the league in rebounding six times -- including five straight seasons from 1980-85. Malone also averaged a double-double -- 20.6 points per game and 12.2 rebounds.

Malone was named one of the 50 greatest NBA players in 1996, making him a member of the Hall of Fame. He was also named NBA MVP in 1978-79, 1981-82 and 1982-83.

Malone's death comes shortly after the death of another center who played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Darryl Dawkins.