Golden State Warriors Mourn the Loss of Alvin Attles
Golden State Warriors Mourn the Loss of Alvin Attles
The Golden State Warriors and the entire basketball world are deeply saddened by the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Attles, a figure whose contributions to the sport spanned over six decades, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Alvin Attles was a steadfast pillar of the Warriors organization, affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his aggressive and tenacious playing style. His journey with the Warriors began in 1960 when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors. A dedicated player, Attles attended North Carolina A&T and posted an average of 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds during his college career. Throughout his 11-year playing career, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain’s historic 100-point game in 1962.
A Legacy of Leadership
In 1969, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career, spanning from 1968 to 1983, was marked by success and leadership, amassing a coaching record of 557-518 (.518). His strategic acumen and leadership were pivotal in leading the Warriors to their franchise's second championship in the 1974-75 season, sweeping the Washington Bullets in four games.
Attles' influence went beyond the court as he transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. In his tenure as general manager, he made crucial decisions that shaped the future of the Warriors, including drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft.
Reflecting on his impact, Chris Mullin said, "This is a difficult day for me. 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. 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. There will never be another Alvin Attles."
A Mentor and Friend
Rick Barry, another Warriors legend, held Attles in high regard as both a mentor and a friend. "My heart is heavy today with the loss of my mentor and friend. Al was my roommate during my rookie season in the league. He taught me valuable lessons on being professional that couldn't be learned on the court. Later, as our coach during the 1975 championship season, he exemplified leadership, togetherness and a keen strategic ability that enabled us to succeed at the highest level. We shared so many wonderful and memorable moments together. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Wilhelmina, and his entire family. He will be dearly missed," Barry expressed.
Enduring Legacy
Attles' legacy is cemented with numerous accolades and honors. His No. 16 jersey is retired by the Warriors, symbolizing his indelible impact on the franchise. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and five years later, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. His 60-year involvement with the Warriors remains the longest in NBA history, a testament to his unwavering dedication and influence.
In their official statement, the Warriors encapsulated the profound impact Attles had on the organization and beyond. "Alvin Attles did not just epitomize what it meant to be a Warrior -- he was Mr. Warrior. His tenacious playing style earned him the affectionate nickname of 'The Destroyer' on the court, but it was his gentle soul, grace, and humility off the court that served as a guiding light for the organization for more than six decades. As a player, coach, general manager, ambassador, and most of all, as a person, Alvin set the standards of professionalism and class by which we all strive to achieve. He leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community, but especially as a family man and humanitarian. We mourn his loss alongside his wife, Wilhelmina, son Alvin, and all who knew and loved him."
As the basketball world bids farewell to Alvin Attles, his storied legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans. His life was a testament to dedication, integrity, and excellence both on and off the court.
