The Golden State Warriors and the entire NBA community are mourning the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who has passed away at the age of 87. Fondly nicknamed "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' influence on the game spanned over six decades, marking one of the most enduring legacies in the history of professional basketball.
An Iconic Career
Attles, whose NBA journey began when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, quickly made his mark on the league. His college career at North Carolina A&T saw him average 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, hinting at the greatness to come. Over an impressive 11-year playing career, predominantly spent with the Warriors, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points on the historic night when Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in 1962.
From Player to Coach
Attles transitioned seamlessly from player to coach, becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA in 1969. Over a coaching career that spanned from 1968 to 1983, he amassed a record of 557-518 (.518). His crowning achievement came in the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to the franchise's second championship with a 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Reflecting on Attles' impact, former player Rick Barry said, "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."
Shifting to Management
After his coaching tenure, Attles moved into the front office, serving as the Warriors' general manager from 1983 to 1986. During this time, he drafted Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin spoke fondly of Attles, remarking, "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."
Legacy and Honors
Attles' impact extended beyond the basketball court. His No. 16 jersey is retired by the Warriors, a testament to his contributions to the franchise. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Attles’ 60-year involvement with the Warriors remains the longest in NBA history, cementing his status as a cornerstone of the organization.
The Golden State Warriors released a heartfelt statement, encapsulating Attles' essence: "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."
Attles passed away surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy that transcends basketball. His influence on the game, the Warriors, and the wider Bay Area community will be fondly remembered. The Warriors' statement perfectly encapsulates the sentiments of many: "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 we reflect on Alvin Attles' remarkable journey, it becomes evident that his life was defined by his unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the court. The world of basketball has lost a giant, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.