The Golden State Warriors and the basketball community are mourning the loss of one of their most beloved figures, Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Attles, affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, left an indelible mark on the Warriors organization and the NBA over a span of six decades.
A Storied Career
Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles had a noteworthy college career at North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. Transitioning to the professional stage, Attles' career blossomed as he played for 11 years, accumulating averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points in the iconic game when Wilt Chamberlain scored his historic 100 points in 1962.
Trailblazer as a Coach
Transitioning from player to coach, Attles broke racial barriers by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA in 1969. His coaching tenure spanned from 1968 to 1983, amassing a coaching record of 557-518 (.518). Under his strategic guidance, the Warriors clinched their second championship in the 1974-75 season with a 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Legacy in Management
Following his coaching career, Attles moved into a managerial role, serving as the general manager from 1983 to 1986. Notably, he drafted Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, further proving his keen eye for talent and dedication to the franchise's success.
A Lifetime of Contributions
For his extensive contributions, Attles has been honored in numerous ways. His No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors, and he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014. In 2019, he was rightfully inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. His 60-year involvement with the Warriors stands as the longest in NBA history, symbolizing his unwavering commitment and love for the game and the organization.
Remembrances and Tributes
The impact of Attles' passing is deeply felt by those who knew him closely. Rick Barry, who shared pivotal moments with Attles, reminisced about their shared history. "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."
Chris Mullin, who was drafted by Attles, also expressed his sorrow and respect. "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."
The Golden State Warriors organization also released a heartfelt statement. "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 grieves this profound loss, Alvin Attles' legacy will continue to inspire future generations. His unparalleled contributions both on and off the court have cemented his place as an icon in NBA history.