Mose Malone
Sports stars and fans have been paying tribute to NBA star Moses Malone Twitter

NBA star Moses Malone, has died aged 60. Police said Malone was found dead in a hotel room in Norfolk, Virginia, on Sunday 13 September. His body was discovered when he failed to turn up for a celebrity golf tournament.

Police said there was no indication of foul play. His death was announced by the Philadelphia 76ers. A cause of death has not been given.

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.
- Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement: "We are stunned and deeply saddened by the passing of Hall of Famer Moses Malone, an NBA legend gone far too soon. 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, he 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, who made the leap straight from high school to the pros, was part of the 76ers' 1983 NBA championship team. His skill in basketball earned him the nickname "Chairman of the Boards". The 6ft 10in-tall sports star entered the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001.

The club said he will "forever be remembered as a genuine icon and pillar of the most storied era in the history of Philadelphia 76ers basketball." Tributes poured in for the basketball legend from fans and colleagues.

"Rest in Heaven to The Great Moses Malone. You will be missed but NEVER forgotten," wrote Shaq.

Dennis Rodman tweeted: "Sending my love and condolences to the family of my friend, and @NBA legend Moses Malone. @Hoophall"