It is with great sorrow that the basketball community mourns the passing of Alvin "Al" Attles, a truly remarkable figure whose legacy transcends the sport. Attles, aged 87, passed away on Tuesday, leaving behind an indelible mark on not only the Golden State Warriors but also the entire NBA.
An Enduring Legacy
Al Attles' tenure with the Warriors is distinguished by a multifaceted career encompassing roles as a player, coach, and general manager. He was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors, marking the beginning of a lifelong association with the franchise. Standing at six feet tall, Attles played as a guard, known for his tenacity and leadership on the court. Over his 11-season career, he played 711 games, averaging 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 scored 11 points in the historic game where Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks. This game remains one of the most iconic performances in basketball history, and Attles' contribution to that night underscores his impact as a player.
Trailblazer in Coaching
Transitioning from player to coach, Attles became one of the NBA's first Black head coaches in 1970, a trailblazer for future generations. Under his leadership, the Warriors achieved their pinnacle of success in 1975, capturing the NBA championship with a commanding four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. His strategic acumen and ability to inspire his team ensured his place as one of the premier coaches of his time.
Executive Roles and Continued Influence
Beyond his coaching career, Attles continued to serve the Warriors in various capacities, including a three-season stint as general manager. His influence extended to roles as vice president and consultant, where his decades of experience and deep understanding of the game were invaluable assets to the organization.
Such was Attles' impact on the franchise that the Warriors retired his No. 16 jersey, a testament to his enduring legacy. His contributions were further recognized when he was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019, an honor befitting his storied career. In 2014, the Hall of Fame honored him with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, underscoring his lasting influence on the sport.
A Face of the Franchise
In the words of Warriors coach Steve Kerr, "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." This sentiment encapsulates the profound respect and admiration Attles garnered throughout his career and the indelible bond he formed with the Warriors and their fans.
In a statement released by the Warriors, the organization expressed their deep condolences: "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."
Alvin Attles' passing is a significant loss for the basketball community. However, his legacy, characterized by excellence and dedication, will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans. His life's work as a player, coach, and executive is a testament to his passion for the game and his unwavering commitment to the Warriors and the broader NBA community.