Wayman "Tizzy" Tisdale, three time All-American of Oklahoma who played 12 seasons in the NBA died this morning after an arduous two-year battle with bone cancer.

Wayman Tisdale became aware of the cancer after breaking his leg after a fall at home in early 2007. His leg was aputated last August, but none of this could keep his tremendous personality from staying positive.

Tisdale continued to make public appearances and even went on to become an award winning jazz musician.

Tisdale played in the NBA for the Sacremento Kings, Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns. With a career average of 15.3 points and a 1984 olympic gold medal it is easy to see that Tisdale was one of basketball's titans.

Bone cancer is one of the most aggressive and deadly forms of cancer; it is hard to stop but can be reversed if it is caught early enough.

The most common symptom of bone tumors is pain. In most cases, the symptoms become gradually more severe with time. Initially, the pain may only be present either at night or with activity. Depending on the growth of the tumor, those affected may have symptoms for weeks, months, or years before seeking medical advice.

In some cases, a mass or lump may be felt either on the bone or in the tissues surrounding the bone. This is most common with MFH or fibrosarcoma but can occur with other bone tumors.

The bones can become weakened by the tumor and lead to a fracture after little or no trauma or just from standing on the affected bone. Fever, chills, night sweats, and weight loss can occur but are less common.

These symptoms are more common after spread of the tumor to other tissues in the body.