Abe Pollin Passes Away

Abe Pollin, owner of the Washington Wizards and founder of the Washington Capitals, passed away at age 85. The longest tenured NBA owner, Pollin was known for his loyalty and love of basketball, and a great friend and owner. Pollin was reported to be afflicted with a rare brain disease that affected movement and balance known as supranuclear palsy, and had bypass surgery back in 2005.

Rather than give heresay on what a great man he was, here is what others had to say.

The NBA family has lost its most revered member, whose stewardship of the Wizards franchise, together with his wife Irene, has been a study in unparalleled dedication to the city of Washington," NBA commissioner David Stern said. "During his illness he fought with a determination and valor that will remain an inspiration to all.

I just lost a real, real good friend," said Wes Unseld, star of the 1978 championship team who later became the team's coach and then general manager. "And I think it's more than any of you will understand or I could even explain. It's just going to be a big void in sports in this community.

We're deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Abe Pollin - a giant in the world of professional sports and someone I was proud to call a friend. Abe was a man who knew that being an owner wasn't just about winning championships, although his teams had plenty of success. It was about helping young athletes become good people as well as good players. And it was about being part of a community," Obama said.

The funeral is set to be held on Friday, along with a public memorial service on Dec. 8 at the Verizon Center.