On a somber day for the basketball world, the Golden State Warriors announced the passing of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles at 87 years old. Known affectionately as "The Destroyer," Attles' immense influence on the Warriors and the NBA spanned over six decades, marking a legacy that has forever shaped the franchise.
Remarkable Player and Coach
Alvin Attles was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960 after an impressive collegiate career at North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. His professional career as a player lasted 11 years, during which he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Attles' grit and fierce playing style earned him the nickname “The Destroyer,” but he was also known for his significant contributions off the court.
One standout moment in Attles' playing career was being the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game in 1962. Attles' leadership qualities and deep understanding of the game smoothly transitioned him into coaching. In 1969, Attles became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, leading the Warriors from 1968 to 1983 with a commendable record of 557-518 (.518). His coaching prowess culminated in guiding the Warriors to the franchise's second championship in the 1974-75 season with a resounding 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
From Coach to General Manager
Attles' journey didn't stop when he hung up his whistle; he transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. One of his notable achievements during this period was drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Attles' ability to spot and cultivate talent further solidified his reputation as a visionary in the sport.
A Legacy Like No Other
Among his many accolades, Attles' No. 16 jersey has been retired by the Warriors, a testament to his indelible impact on the team. His contributions to basketball were recognized on a broader scale when he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
Attles' involvement with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history, a staggering 60 years, during which he served as a player, coach, general manager, and ambassador. His dedication and influence have left an enduring mark not just on the franchise but on the entire basketball community.
Tributes Pour In
Rick Barry, one of Attles' contemporaries and a key figure in the Warriors' 1975 championship run, paid a heartfelt tribute. "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. 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," Barry reflected.
Chris Mullin, who was drafted by Attles, also expressed his sorrow. "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."
The Golden State Warriors issued a statement that encapsulated the essence of Attles' contribution to the team and community: "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."
Alvin Attles' influence on the Warriors and the NBA at large will be remembered and revered for generations to come. His life and career serve as a beacon of excellence and integrity, truly embodying what it means to be a champion on and off the court.