Alvin "Al" Attles, a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors' rich history, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. His remarkable contributions to the Warriors spanned multiple roles, from player to coach to general manager, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
A Legacy on the Court
Drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors, Attles carved out a storied career as a 6-foot-0 guard. Over 11 seasons, he appeared in 711 games, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. One of his memorable moments as a player came on March 2, 1962, when he scored 11 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game against the New York Knicks.
Pioneering Role as Head Coach
In 1970, Attles broke new ground in the NBA by becoming one of the league's first Black head coaches. Under his guidance, the Warriors achieved their 1975 NBA championship, sweeping the Washington Bullets in a memorable four-game series. Attles' tenure as head coach was marked by his ability to bring out the best in his players, earning their respect and leading them to success.
Beyond Coaching
Transitioning from the bench to the front office, Attles continued to shape the future of the Warriors as their general manager for three seasons. His influence extended into various roles within the organization, including vice president and consultant. The Warriors honored his contributions by retiring his No. 16 jersey, and in 2019, he was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Honors and Recognition
Attles' legacy within the basketball community was further recognized in 2014 when he received the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hall of Fame. His induction into the Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019 cemented his place among the sport's legends. Known for his integrity and dedication, Attles was widely respected among peers, players, and fans alike.
A Profound Impact
The Golden State Warriors released a heartfelt statement reflecting on Attles' broad influence: "Alvin 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."
Warriors coach Steve Kerr echoed these sentiments, highlighting Attles' enduring connection with the franchise: "Most of the great organizations with a lot of history have one player who everybody associates with that franchise. Al Attles is that guy for us. He's the face of our franchise for many generations of Warriors fans. We're lucky to have him."
Attles' journey with the Warriors is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for the game. From his early days as a player to his milestones as a coach and executive, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Warriors' legacy. His influence will be felt for years to come, both on and off the court.
As the basketball world mourns the loss of a true legend, Attles' life reminds us that greatness is not just measured in points and championships, but also in the lasting impact one leaves on a community and a sport. His contributions to the Golden State Warriors and basketball at large serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.