Al Attles (1936-2024) Find a Grave Memorial
Al Attles (1936-2024) Find a Grave Memorial, Al Attles Find a Grave, Al Attles Death and Burial Details, lvin Austin Attles Jr. was an American professional basketball player and coach.
A professional basketball player from 1960 to 1971, he was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors and had a notable career with the Philadelphia and San Francisco Warriors. A graduate of Weequahic High School and North Carolina A&T State University, he earned degrees in physical education and history, and a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction.
Al Attles
Full Name | Alvin Austin Attles Jr. |
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Birth | 7 November 1936, Newark, New Jersey, United States |
Death | 20 August 2024 (age 87 years), East Bay, United States |
Cause of Death | |
Spouse | Willhemina Rice |
Children | Alvin Attles III |
Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
Weight | 175 lb (79 kg) |
Nationality | American |
Burial |
St. Michael’s Cemetery in Paterson, New Jersey, United States
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Over 711 games, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019, received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, and was honored in the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 1993. He also served as a player-coach and the longest-serving head coach in Warriors history.
Celebrating a Basketball Legacy: The Journey of a Hall of Famer
The world of basketball is graced with many extraordinary figures, but few have left a legacy as impactful and enduring as Al Attles. With a career spanning from the courts to the sidelines, his story is a testament to dedication, skill, and leadership.
From High School Stardom to NBA Draft
Al Attles began his basketball journey at Weequahic High School in Newark, New Jersey, where his talent quickly set him apart. His impressive high school performance earned him a spot at North Carolina A&T State University, where he excelled both on the court and in academics. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and History, followed by a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.
A Distinguished NBA Career
Selected by the Philadelphia Warriors in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA Draft, Al Attles embarked on a professional basketball career that spanned from 1960 to 1971. Over the course of 711 games with the Philadelphia Warriors and later the San Francisco Warriors, he averaged a commendable 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. His contributions on the court were marked by his versatility and consistent performance.
Coaching and Management Excellence
Al Attles’s impact extended beyond his playing days. During the 1969–70 season, he took on the dual role of player-coach for the Warriors, showcasing his leadership and strategic acumen. He continued to make his mark as a head coach and manager for the San Francisco/Golden State Warriors, eventually becoming the longest-serving coach in the team’s history. His tenure in these roles was instrumental in shaping the team’s future and establishing a winning culture.
Honors and Recognitions
The accolades and honors bestowed upon Al Attles reflect his exceptional contributions to the game. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his lifelong dedication to basketball. His induction into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 1993 and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on April 6, 2019, further cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s greats. These recognitions celebrate not only his achievements on the court but also his influence and leadership throughout his career.
Legacy and Impact
Al Attles is remembered not just for his statistics and awards but for his enduring impact on the game of basketball. His journey from a high school star to a Hall of Famer and long-serving coach illustrates a remarkable career characterized by excellence, commitment, and a deep love for the sport.
As we reflect on his remarkable achievements, Al Attles’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and coaches, demonstrating that true greatness is achieved through passion, perseverance, and a willingness to lead and inspire others.
Death
Attles passed away at his East Bay home on August 20, 2024, at the age of 87. He had been receiving hospice care for several weeks prior to his death.
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Al Attles (1936-2024) Find a Grave Memorial
FAQs About Alvin Austin Attles Jr.
Q: Who was Alvin Austin Attles Jr.?
A: Alvin Austin Attles Jr. (November 7, 1936 – August 20, 2024) was an American professional basketball player, coach, and executive known for his entire career with the Golden State Warriors of the NBA. Nicknamed “The Destroyer,” he played as a point guard and made significant contributions to the team both as a player and coach.
Q: What notable achievements did Attles accomplish during his career?
A: Attles led the Golden State Warriors to an NBA championship in 1975. He was also inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. Additionally, his number 16 was retired by the Warriors, and he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014.
Q: How long did Attles serve as the head coach for the Warriors?
A: Attles served as the head coach of the Golden State Warriors from the 1969–70 season until 1983. He is the longest-serving coach in the franchise’s history and holds the record for the most wins with the team.
Q: What were some significant moments from Attles’ playing career?
A: During his playing career, Attles was known for his defensive skills and played a role on the Warriors teams that reached the NBA Finals in 1964 and 1967. On March 2, 1962, he was the second-leading scorer for the Warriors in a game where Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points.
Q: What roles did Attles take on with the Warriors after his coaching career?
A: After stepping down as head coach, Attles served as the general manager of the Warriors from 1983 to 1986. He continued to be associated with the team as a team ambassador and community relations representative.
Q: When was Attles inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame?
A: Attles was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
Q: What is known about Attles’ early life and education?
A: Attles graduated from Weequahic High School in Newark, New Jersey, and North Carolina A&T State University. He held a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and History and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.
Q: What were some of Attles’ personal life details?
A: Attles married Wilhemina Rice in 1963, with Wilt Chamberlain as his best man. The couple had two children, and Attles’ grandson, Isaiah Attles, played college basketball for Alcorn State. Attles was Catholic and had friendships with figures like Bill Cosby and Les McCann.
Q: When did Alvin Attles pass away?
A: Alvin Attles passed away on August 20, 2024, at the age of 87. He had spent weeks in hospice care before his death.