Golden State Warriors Mourn the Passing of Legendary Alvin Attles
The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community are mourning the loss of a true legend, Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Known affectionately as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' impact on the Warriors and the NBA spanned over six remarkable decades, cementing his legacy both on and off the court.
Attles passed away surrounded by his family at his home, leaving behind a profound legacy that touched many lives. His involvement with the Warriors is unparalleled, holding the record for the longest tenure with a single organization in NBA history.
A Storied Career on the Court
Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles quickly made his mark on the team. He attended North Carolina A&T, where he averaged an impressive 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. Over his 11-year playing career, he maintained averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
One of the most memorable moments of Attles' playing career came on March 2, 1962, when he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points in the game where Wilt Chamberlain famously scored 100 points. This achievement highlighted his significance on the team even amidst historic performances.
Trailblazing Coach and General Manager
In 1969, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career, which spanned from 1968 to 1983, saw him amass a record of 557-518, a testament to his strategic prowess and leadership abilities. His crowning achievement as a coach came in the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to the franchise's second championship, executing a phenomenal 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
After his coaching stint, Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. One of his notable decisions in this capacity was drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, a move that would shape the future of the franchise.
Legacy and Impact
Attles' No. 16 jersey hangs retired by the Warriors, a constant reminder of his enduring impact on the team. His contributions earned him the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and an induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019, solidifying his place among the basketball greats.
Reflecting on his mentor and friend, Rick Barry shared, "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 echoed these sentiments, saying, "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 released a statement commemorating his lifetime 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. 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."
Alvin Attles' passing is a significant loss for the Warriors organization and the broader basketball family. His legacy, defined by integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans. He leaves behind a monumental legacy that transcends the game of basketball, emblematic of the impact one individual can have through dedication, humility, and passion.