Today, the basketball world mourns the loss of Jerry West, a legendary figure in the sport who passed away at the age of 87. Known for his multifaceted contributions to the game, West’s impact was profound and enduring, spanning roles as a player, coach, and general manager. His passing marks the end of an era for the Los Angeles Lakers and the broader NBA community.
Jerry West’s career began in the late 1950s when he entered the NBA as a standout guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. Drafted in 1960, West quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier players. His exceptional skills on the court earned him the nickname “Mr. Clutch” due to his penchant for delivering in crucial moments. Over his 14-year playing career, West amassed numerous accolades, including 14 All-Star selections, 12 All-NBA Team selections, and an NBA Finals MVP award. Despite his individual brilliance, West’s Lakers teams were often thwarted in the Finals by the Boston Celtics, a rivalry that defined the era.
West’s influence extended beyond his playing days. After retiring as a player in 1974, he transitioned to coaching, taking the helm of the Lakers in 1976. Though his coaching stint was brief, it was a testament to his deep understanding of the game. His greatest impact, however, came in the role of general manager. West’s strategic acumen was instrumental in building the Lakers’ championship teams of the 1980s and early 2000s. His tenure as GM saw the acquisition of key players such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Shaquille O’Neal, all of whom were pivotal in securing multiple championships for the Lakers.
West’s contributions were not limited to the Lakers. His expertise and vision helped shape the broader NBA landscape. After his time with the Lakers, West served as an executive for the Memphis Grizzlies, further proving his versatility and influence in different organizational contexts. His ability to recognize and nurture talent, combined with his deep understanding of the game, made him one of the most respected figures in basketball management.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jerry West was known for his humility and dedication to the sport. Despite his numerous accolades and the high-profile nature of his career, he remained grounded and focused on the collective success of his teams. His legacy is reflected not only in the championships and individual awards but also in the respect and admiration he earned from players, coaches, and fans alike.
The NBA community has been quick to honor West’s legacy. Tributes have poured in from current and former players, coaches, and executives who have been influenced by his work. They remember him not only for his remarkable achievements but also for his profound impact on the game and the people within it. West’s influence is evident in the many players and coaches who have been inspired by his approach to the game, his work ethic, and his strategic mindset.
Jerry West’s passing is a significant loss to the basketball world. His contributions to the sport will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. As both a player and an executive, West’s impact on the game of basketball is immeasurable. His legacy lives on through the many achievements of the teams he built, the players he mentored, and the fans who admired his incredible career. The sport of basketball has lost a true legend, and the void left by his passing will be felt deeply across the NBA community.
Hall of Fame member Al Attles, a physical point guard known as “The Destroyer” who later became an NBA champion coach and general manager of the Golden State Warriors, died Tuesday at 87. The team announced Wednesday that Attles passed away at his home in East Bay, Calif., surrounded by family. “Alvin leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community, but especially as a family man and humanitarian,” the Warriors said in a statement. “We mourn his loss alongside his wife, Wilhelmina, son Alvin, and all who knew and loved him.” Attles began his NBA career as a fifth-round pick of the then-Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. On March 2, 1962, in Hershey, Pa., he had 17 points against the New York Knicks on a night where teammate Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points. He moved with the franchise to San Francisco later in 1962 and remained a player through the 1970-71 season, finishing with career averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists in 711 games.
Attles served as the Warriors’ player-coach during his final season and remained the head coach through 1983, leading them to the NBA championship in 1974-75. They swept the then-Washington Bullets in the NBA Finals, making Attles the second Black coach to win a title after Bill Russell. Attles compiled a 557-518 record as the Warriors’ head coach. He later served as the team’s general manager for three seasons, returned as an assistant coach in 1994-95 and also worked in the front office as a vice president and consultant, ultimately spending more than six decades with the organization. “Alvin Attles had a huge, positive influence on me and my career, not just drafting me in 1985 and bringing me to the Bay Area but guiding me through my journey as a player and a young man, both in good and difficult times,” former Warriors star Chris Mullin said. “He was a dear friend, mentor and role model and someone I admired tremendously and tried to emulate. He set the standard for all of us when it comes to integrity and humility and was truly a champion both on and off the court.
