The Golden State Warriors are mourning the loss of one of their most cherished figures, Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' impact on the Warriors and the NBA spanned over six decades, making his contributions to the sport both profound and enduring.
A Storied Career
Attles was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, marking the beginning of an illustrious journey with the franchise. A product of North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, Attles brought his formidable skills and intense playing style to the professional arena. Over his 11-year playing career, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, with one of his standout moments being the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game in 1962.
Transitioning from player to coach, Attles broke new ground in 1969 as one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. Under his leadership from 1968 to 1983, Attles steered the Warriors to a remarkable 557-518 (.518) record. His coaching pinnacle came during the 1974-75 season when he guided the team to their second championship with a memorable 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Leadership Off The Court
Attles' influence on the team continued beyond his coaching career. From 1983 to 1986, he took on the role of general manager, showcasing his keen eye for talent by drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft.
Rick Barry, a key player during the Warriors' 1975 championship run, fondly recalled his mentor and 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."
Chris Mullin echoed these sentiments, highlighting Attles' profound impact on his development both on and off the court. "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."
A Legacy Cemented
As a testament to his contributions, Attles' No. 16 jersey is permanently retired by the Warriors. His accolades include receiving the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. Attles' 60-year involvement with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history, a legacy that solidifies his position as a true pioneer and stalwart of the organization.
The Warriors organization released a statement celebrating Attles' immense contributions: "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 leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community. His influence extended beyond the court, touching the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him. The Warriors, along with the broader basketball community, mourn the loss of a legend, remembering his contributions not just as a player and coach but as a mentor, leader, and humanitarian.
As the Warriors, the NBA, and fans around the world reflect on Alvin Attles' life, his enduring legacy serves as a beacon of excellence, integrity, and the indomitable spirit of a true Warrior.