Bison Dele, American basketball player (d. 2002)

Bison Dele, born Brian Carson Williams on April 6, 1969, was an enigmatic and exceptionally talented American professional basketball player whose life, marked by both athletic brilliance and a profound search for meaning, tragically concluded on or around July 7, 2002. Known for his powerful presence as a center, Dele carved out a significant career in the National Basketball Association before famously walking away from the game to pursue a life of adventure and introspection.

An Illustrious NBA Career

Dele's journey through the NBA saw him lend his skills to several prominent franchises. He began his professional career after being drafted by the Orlando Magic, showcasing his athleticism and defensive prowess. His career path then led him to the Denver Nuggets, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Detroit Pistons, where he was a valuable contributor. However, it was during his tenure with the legendary Chicago Bulls that he achieved the pinnacle of team success, playing a key role in their 1997 championship run. This victory placed him alongside some of basketball's all-time greats, a testament to his impact on the court during an era dominated by the Bulls' dynasty.

Life Beyond Basketball: The Transformation

Following his championship victory and a stint with the Pistons, Bison Dele made a truly unconventional decision for an athlete at the height of his physical prime: he retired from basketball at just 30 years old. Eschewing the fame and fortune that often accompany an NBA career, he famously walked away from a multi-million dollar contract, a move that captivated and puzzled many. This pivotal decision coincided with his legal name change from Brian Carson Williams to Bison Dele (pronounced BYE-sən DEL-ee), a name chosen to reflect his newfound philosophy and connection to Native American heritage, symbolizing a wild, free spirit. He embarked on a period of extensive travel, exploring remote corners of the world and immersing himself in diverse cultures, seeking experiences far removed from the pressures and spotlight of professional sports.

The Tragic Voyage and Disappearance

It was during one such adventurous journey that tragedy struck. In the summer of 2002, Dele, his girlfriend Serena Karlan, and the experienced French skipper Bertrand Saldo set sail from Tahiti aboard Dele's catamaran, the 'Aria II.' They were joined by Dele's older brother, Miles Dabord, who had been born Kevin Williams. The group was en route to Hawaii when, sometime after July 7, 2002, contact with the 'Aria II' was lost. What followed was a disturbing series of events that led investigators to a chilling conclusion. Dabord, reportedly the only one to return from the voyage, was later found in Phoenix, Arizona, attempting to purchase gold using Dele's passport and signing documents with his brother's name. The catamaran itself was discovered off the coast of Mexico, but evidence suggested it had been intentionally scuttled. Authorities strongly believe that Bison Dele, Serena Karlan, and Bertrand Saldo were murdered at sea by Miles Dabord.

The Unresolved Mystery

Miles Dabord became the primary suspect in the disappearance and presumed murders of his brother, his girlfriend, and the skipper. He was apprehended by the FBI in September 2002. However, before he could be fully interrogated or brought to justice, Dabord intentionally overdosed on insulin while in police custody in Tijuana, Mexico, falling into a coma and dying shortly thereafter. His death meant that a definitive, publicly revealed account of what transpired on the 'Aria II' might never fully emerge from his perspective. The motive for such a heinous act remains speculative, though financial disputes and a history of a complex relationship between the brothers have often been cited. The case, while officially closed with Dabord's death, leaves many unanswered questions, forever shrouding the end of Bison Dele's remarkable and unique life in a veil of somber mystery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bison Dele

Who was Bison Dele?

Bison Dele was an American professional basketball player, known for his career as a center in the NBA and for his unconventional retirement to pursue a life of adventure. He tragically disappeared in 2002 and is presumed to have been murdered.

What was his original name?

He was born Brian Carson Williams but legally changed his name to Bison Dele to reflect his post-NBA lifestyle and personal philosophy.

Which NBA teams did he play for?

He played for the Orlando Magic, Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, Chicago Bulls, and Detroit Pistons.

When did he win an NBA championship?

Bison Dele won an NBA championship with the Chicago Bulls in 1997.

What happened to Bison Dele?

He disappeared at sea in July 2002 while on a catamaran trip. Authorities believe he, his girlfriend Serena Karlan, and skipper Bertrand Saldo were murdered by his older brother, Miles Dabord.

Who was Miles Dabord?

Miles Dabord was Bison Dele's older brother (born Kevin Williams) and the primary suspect in the disappearance and presumed murders. He died in September 2002 after intentionally overdosing while in police custody.

Were other people involved in the incident?

Yes, Bison Dele's girlfriend, Serena Karlan, and the catamaran's skipper, Bertrand Saldo, are also presumed to have been killed by Miles Dabord.

Was the case ever fully solved?

While authorities concluded that Miles Dabord was responsible, his death before a full confession or trial meant that many details and the precise motive for the tragic events remain an unresolved mystery.