Former Indiana Pacer Mel Daniels passed away Friday, VigilantSports.com has confirmed.
Daniels played for the Pacers from 1968-1974 and played a key role in the organization’s three ABA Championships (1970, 1972, 1973).
Peter Vecsey, a longtime NBA sports writer, first reported the news.
Daniels, who was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, still has strong feelings for the organization. He would appear at community events, and frequently attend games.
Daniels was even at Bankers Life Fieldhouse Thursday evening for the Pacers’ home opener.
“I join our extended Pacers family in offering my sincerest condolences to CeCe and Mel’s family,” said Pacers owner Herb Simon. “We will miss him greatly, but when we look at that Hall of Fame banner in Bankers Life Fieldhouse, we will be forever reminded of what he meant to this franchise.”
rest in peace mel daniels, crazy was just walking through the locker room yesterday…
— Solomon Hill (@solohill) October 30, 2015
R.I.P to the great Mel Daniels one of the nicest persons ive ever met…was always in my corner and positive…you will be missed
— Donald Sloan (@dsloan15) October 30, 2015
So sad to hear of the passing of "Uncle" Mel Daniels.
I will always remember his infectious laugh, awesome stories and crushing handshake.
— Austin Croshere (@AustinCroshere) October 30, 2015
RIP to Mel Daniels always had words of wisdom for me during my 7 years with the @pacers. Firmest handshake ever!
— Roy Hibbert (@Roy_Meets_World) October 30, 2015
So sorry to hear of Mr Mel Daniels passing…A good man whom I respected dearly…Peace Be upon his Family.
— David West (@D_West30) October 31, 2015
He always shared his experiences and offered "Man" advice…I always appreciated that…U will be missed Sir!!!
— David West (@D_West30) October 31, 2015