Williams, 70, was diagnosed in January after an extensive physical the Magic require of all executives, the Orlando Sentinel reported. Multiple myeloma is inoperable and incurable, but sometimes can be treated with chemotherapy to the point of inactivity.

"I've delivered many a motivational speech about the stuff you always hear about in sports," Williams, executive vice president of the Magic, told the Sentinel. "I've stood up there and told other people you can't give up and you've got to show courage, perseverance and will. Now, I get to live out the things I always talk about. That's a privilege."

Williams has written more than 70 books, including his latest—Coach Wooden: The 7 Principles That Shaped His Life and Will Change Yours—released this month by Revell/Baker Publishing Group. Last year, Williams and his wife, Ruth, wrote Happy Spouse...Happy House: The BEST Game Plan for a Winning Marriage (Standard Publishing). His other books include The Leadership Wisdom of Solomon (Standard Publishing), What are You Living For? (Regal Books) and Extreme Dreams Depend on Teams (Center Street).

Williams and his wife are the parents of 19 children—14 of whom were adopted from four countries. He has run in 58 marathons, including 12 Boston Marathons, since he turned 55.

Williams, who is a motivational speaker, recites "the mission is remission" before going for his chemo treatments. "I'm asking friends and associates to pour a little prayer support into old Pat and ask the great physician for His healing touch," Williams told OrlandoMagic.com. "That's my prayer right now.''

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