Corey Williams, former NBL MVP, dies after colon cancer diagnosis

Former National Basketball League MVP and outspoken commentator Corey Williams has died aged 46 after a colon cancer diagnosis in August last year.

A New York street-baller, Williams, known as "Homicide", played professionally in 12 countries and lit up the NBL when joining the Townsville Crocodiles in 2007.

The father of two won the competition's MVP award in 2010 before joining the Melbourne Tigers and later transitioning into commentary.

His presence coincided with the regeneration of the game in Australia, which is now regarded as one of the world's strongest and a pathway to the NBA.

In a tribute on X after Williams's death, the NBL wrote:

Passion beyond measure, and an impact felt across the world. Corey lit up every room he entered with the joy and zest he had for life.

A fearless competitor on the court, never short of an opinion off it and a showman through and through.

'Homicide' was one of one.

NBL owner Larry Kestelman also paid tribute to Williams.

"I will personally miss Corey, as will my wife, Anita and our family," he said.

"We are all at a loss right now and our thoughts and prayers are with Filagote, and his daughters Bella and Gabi, as well as his immediate and extended family, and close friends.

"Having Corey as part of the NBL commentary team was by far one of the best decisions I ever made, and without his passion for the League and enthusiasm for the growth of the game in Australia, we simply wouldn't be where we are today.

"Corey's positivity was infectious. He had a laugh and smile that could light up any room.

"He was as big a presence off the court as he was on it, and earned a fearsome reputation on both sides of the game.

"There will never be another Corey 'Homicide' Williams, may he rest in peace."

Williams hosted a golf day last month attended by a host of Australian basketball greats to raise awareness of colon cancer and funds towards his treatment.

"Corey is an icon of Australian basketball, so whenever anything happens like this the basketball community gets together and see if we can help," two-time NBL champion Lanard Copeland said at the time.

"Corey's been nothing but positive, and it's hard not to want to help a guy like that."

AAP