The Golden State Warriors and the broader NBA community are mourning the loss of one of basketball's most storied figures, Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Known affectionately as "The Destroyer" for his relentless playing style, Attles' impactful career with the Warriors spanned over six decades, making him a cherished legend in the sport.
Attles was at his home, surrounded by his family, at the time of his passing. His enduring legacy is rooted in numerous notable achievements and milestones. Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles went on to make an indelible mark on the game. During his college years at North Carolina A&T, he displayed early signs of excellence by averaging 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. His professional statistics highlight a solid 11-year playing career that saw him average 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
A Storied Career
One of Attles’ most memorable moments as a player came on March 2, 1962, when he was the second-leading scorer for the Warriors with 17 points, the same night Wilt Chamberlain famously scored 100 points. This game is etched in NBA lore, and so is Attles' contribution to it.
In 1969, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, serving as a pivotal figure in the league's history. His coaching career spanned from 1968 to 1983, during which he accumulated a commendable record of 557-518 (.518). Under his leadership, the Warriors clinched the franchise's second championship in the 1974-75 season, sweeping the Washington Bullets 4-0 in the Finals.
Transitioning from the sidelines to the front office, Attles took on the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. In this capacity, he made significant decisions, including drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Attles' No. 16 jersey has since been retired by the Warriors, a tribute to his monumental impact on the team.
Legacy and Tributes
Rick Barry, an integral part of the Warriors' 1975 championship team, paid heartfelt tribute to his former coach and mentor. "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," Barry said. "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."
A Mentor and Friend
Chris Mullin also expressed his sorrow and gratitude for the influence Attles had on his life and career. "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," Mullin reflected.
Mr. Warrior
In a team statement, the Golden State Warriors encapsulated what Attles meant to the organization. "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."
Attles' lifetime of contributions to basketball and his 60-year association with the Warriors mark the longest tenure in NBA history. His accolades, including receiving the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019, are a testament to his enduring influence and exceptional career.
As the Warriors and NBA fans reflect on Attles' life and legacy, it is clear that Alvin Attles' impact transcends the numbers on the stat sheets. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments on the court but also for his mentorship, leadership, and the indelible mark he left on the lives of those who knew him.