Basketball Legend Al Attles Dies at 87

Basketball Legend Al Attles Dies at 87

ByFind a Grave

Basketball Legend Al Attles Dies at 87: Remembering a Warrior’s Legacy, Basketball Hall of Famer Al Attles Dies at 87

Al Attles, the legendary point guard known as “The Destroyer” and former NBA champion coach and general manager for the Golden State Warriors, passed away at 87. Attles, who played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ 1975 NBA championship win, was celebrated for his extensive contributions to the game and the Bay Area community. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019 and honored with a retired jersey, Attles’ legacy endures in the world of basketball and beyond.

The basketball world mourns the loss of Al Attles, the revered Hall of Famer known for his tenacity on the court and his impactful leadership off it. Attles, who was affectionately dubbed “The Destroyer” during his playing days, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. His death was confirmed by the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday, who shared that he died peacefully at his home in East Bay, California, surrounded by his loved ones.

The Warriors issued a heartfelt statement, reflecting on Attles’ profound influence both within the realm of basketball and the Bay Area community. “Alvin leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community, but especially as a family man and humanitarian,” the team said. “We mourn his loss alongside his wife, Wilhelmina, son Alvin, and all who knew and loved him.”

Attles’ journey in the NBA began in 1960 when he was selected as a fifth-round pick by the Philadelphia Warriors. His career took an extraordinary turn on March 2, 1962, when he played alongside Wilt Chamberlain in a historic game in Hershey, Pennsylvania. While Chamberlain made headlines by scoring 100 points, Attles contributed 17 points against the New York Knicks.

The franchise’s move to San Francisco in 1962 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Attles, who played for the Warriors until the end of the 1970-71 season. Over his 711 games, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. In his final season as a player, Attles also took on the role of player-coach, a position that laid the groundwork for his future success.

Attles’ coaching career was marked by significant achievements, including leading the Warriors to their first NBA championship in the 1974-75 season. The Warriors swept the Washington Bullets in the Finals, making Attles the second Black coach to win an NBA title, following Bill Russell. Over his tenure, he compiled a 557-518 record and continued to contribute to the team in various capacities, including as general manager, assistant coach, and front-office executive. His dedication to the Warriors spanned more than six decades.

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Former Warriors star Chris Mullin, who was drafted by Attles in 1985, praised him as a mentor and friend. “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,” Mullin said. “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.”

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In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the game, Attles was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. The Warriors also honored his legacy by retiring his jersey No. 16.

Al Attles’ impact on the game of basketball and his enduring legacy with the Golden State Warriors will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. His contributions to the sport and his community will continue to inspire future generations.