A Photo Tribute to Wayman Tisdale

Friday, May 21, 2009
By Joy T. Bennett

Gift: he had one; and he was one.
 
A big dude–with a big heart to match, Wayman Tisdale was a consummate entertainer – whether as an NBA All-Star or on the concert stage.  But his legions of fans will remember more than the noted bass guitarists jazz chops or jump shots from his far too short life—they’ll remember his infectious laugh, sunny smile and warm personality. He was that rare bird—authentic in every venue he entered. 
 
His friend Kirk Whalum says, “Wayman Tisdale has a gift of touching people’s hearts.”  And because Tisdale always Rebounded, (his last CD is Rebound), we all hoped that the 6-foot-9 former Olympian would beat the bone cancer that claimed his life at 44. But this game didn’t end in overtime. The season ended early for Tisdale, who called himself, “the self-appointed ambassador of old school.” But he leaves a rich legacy of love.
 
As he told Ebony: “I just love people, and I feel like entertainment goes right in line with my personality. Whether it’s on the stage or playing basketball, it’s just what I’ve been called to do on this earth."

These published photographs were shot by EBONY photographer Valerie Goodloe as part of a 2006 magazine feature on the artist and athlete.

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