Former Harlem Globetrotter, Richmond alum ‘Clyde the Glide’ has died

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Former Harlem Globetrotter and Maggie L. Walker High School graduate Clyde "the Glide" Austin has died, according to family members.

Multiple family members, including Austin's grandson and daughter, have posted statements saying Austin passed away the weekend of Aug. 16.

Sources familiar with the situation told 8News that he died after experiencing a heart attack.

Austin, known by many as "Clyde the Glide," graduated from Maggie L. Walker High in Richmond. He went on to play for the Harlem Globetrotters for several years.

"My father was my hero to me and, depending who you may ask, one of the greatest basketball players to ever pick up a basketball," his daughter, Patrice Austin, wrote on Facebook. "He was a magician with the basketball and loved the game and loved to teach others the game, as well."

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No additional information is available as of the time of reporting.

"He was more than a legend on the court — he was my family, my inspiration," his grandson, Tjay, said on Facebook. "I promise to carry on his legacy and make him proud every step of the way."