The recent NBA draft ushered in a moment of reflection for the LA Clippers, as it marked their first draft night without the legendary Jerry West who passed away on June 12 at the age of 86. The absence of West, a beloved figure in the basketball world and a consultant for the Clippers over the last seven years, cast a somber tone over what is typically a night of excitement and optimism.
West's influence on the Clippers was profound. Widely regarded as one of the greatest minds in the history of the sport, his input was instrumental in transforming the Clippers from perennial underachievers into a team capable of challenging the NBA's elite. He was pivotal in the recruitment of superstars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, moves that signaled a new era for the Clippers and shifted the balance of power in the NBA.
"He loved the draft. It was like Christmas. He loved knowing every single player, he loved meeting the players. Took great pride in where guys would go. After the draft selections were made, he was so happy," said Lawrence Frank, the Clippers' president of basketball operations, capturing the essence of West's passion for the game and his meticulous nature when it came to player evaluation.
This year's draft night, without West, was particularly reflective for the Clippers' organization. The team did not have a first-round pick, further emphasizing the absence of their trusted guide. However, in the second round, with the 46th pick, the Clippers selected Cameron Christie from Minnesota. It was a move likely influenced by the legacy of thorough scouting and assessment that West left behind.
"We just want to honor and respect Jerry every single day," Frank added, underscoring the sense of duty the Clippers' front office feels to uphold the standards and values instilled by West during his time with the team.
Jerry West's basketball journey began long before his tenure with the Clippers. Born in West Virginia, he made his mark at West Virginia University from 1957 to 1960. His brilliance on the court earned him the second overall pick in the NBA draft by the Minneapolis Lakers, where he would go on to have a storied career. He was a 14-time All-Star and played a commanding role in securing the 1972 NBA championship for the Lakers.
As this draft night came to a close, the sentiment within the Clippers' war room was one of bittersweet remembrance. "It's a bittersweet day. Very sad that Jerry wasn't here for it," Frank reflected, a statement that resonated with everyone who had witnessed West’s passion and expertise firsthand.
In the years he spent with the Clippers, West's impact was nothing short of transformative. His profound understanding of the game and his strategic acumen were cornerstones of the team's recent successes. For the Clippers, moving forward without Jerry West means carrying on the traditions of excellence and dedication he so fervently championed. His legacy is one that will undoubtedly endure, shaping the team's ethos and guiding its decisions for years to come.
The Clippers now face the challenge of navigating future drafts and seasons without the wisdom of the master strategist who became synonymous with their recent resurgence. Yet, with the influence of West indelibly marked into their fabric, the Clippers' organization is poised to honor his memory through continued commitment to excellence on and off the court. Lawrence Frank, along with the rest of the organization, remains steadfast in this pursuit, ensuring that Jerry West's legacy is celebrated and reflected in every game, every practice, and every draft.