Golden State Warriors Mourn Loss of Icon Alvin Attles
Golden State Warriors Mourn Loss of Icon Alvin Attles
The Golden State Warriors organization, and indeed the entire basketball community, is in mourning following the passing of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles. Attles, who was affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his fierce playing style, passed away at the age of 87, surrounded by family at his home.
A Legacy Etched in Greatness
Alvin Attles' contributions to the game of basketball and the Golden State Warriors spanned over six decades, a period during which he left an indelible mark as a player, coach, general manager, and revered elder statesman. Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles' journey began at North Carolina A&T where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds.
During his 11-year playing career, predominantly with the Warriors, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. He famously was the second-leading scorer with 17 points on the night Wilt Chamberlain dropped 100 points in a single game in 1962.
In 1969, Attles broke barriers, 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 wins against 518 losses. However, his most notable accomplishment came in the 1974-75 season, when he guided the Warriors to the franchise's second championship, capping the season with a decisive 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Transitioning Roles and Continuing Impact
Following his coaching career, Attles transitioned to a front-office role, serving as general manager from 1983 to 1986. Among his notable achievements in this capacity was the drafting of Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin went on to become a key player for the Warriors and a member of the Basketball Hall of Fame.
During his six-decade-long tenure, Attles’ impact was profound and multifaceted, earning him the moniker "Mr. Warrior." His No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors, an honor reserved for the most impactful and beloved figures in the franchise’s history. In recognition of his lifetime of contributions, Attles received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
Reflections from a Grateful Community
Alvin Attles' passing has prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from those who knew him best. Rick Barry, a former Warriors player who was coached by Attles during the 1975 championship season, expressed his deep sorrow and gratitude for the mentorship he received from Attles.
"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 shared. "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, who was drafted by Attles in 1985, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the integrity and humility that characterized Attles' life.
"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 stated.
A statement from the Golden State Warriors encapsulated the emotional weight of Attles' passing and the breadth of his impact: "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."
Honoring a Titan
As the basketball world reflects on the life and legacy of Alvin Attles, his remarkable six-decade-long association with the Warriors stands as the longest in NBA history. His contributions transcended the sport, cementing his status as a revered figure both on and off the court. Alvin Attles' legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and basketball enthusiasts.
