On Tuesday, the basketball community and the Bay Area mourned the loss of Alvin "Al" Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. A monumental figure whose legacy extended beyond the court, Attles' association with the Warriors spanned decades, making an indelible mark as a player, coach, and general manager.
A Legacy of Excellence
Al Attles was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing at 6 feet tall, the guard embarked on an 11-season career, during which he played an impressive 711 games. Known for his tenacity and determination, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game over his career.
One of Attles' most memorable moments as a player came on March 2, 1962, when he scored 11 points in the historic game where Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks. Attles was not just a player on that night; he was part of a legendary team moment that would cement his place in basketball history.
Pioneering Path as a Coach
In 1970, Attles transitioned from player to coach, becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. His leadership and vision brought immediate success, and in 1975, he guided the Warriors to an NBA championship with a four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. This achievement not only marked a high point in the franchise's history but also symbolized Attles' prowess in coaching and mentorship.
Continued Contributions
Attles' involvement with the Warriors did not end with his coaching career. He served as the team's general manager for three seasons and later held various roles within the organization, including vice president and consultant. His enduring presence in the franchise earned him the title of "Mr. Warrior," a testament to his unwavering commitment to the team.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr highlighted Attles' significance, stating, "Most of the great organizations with a lot of history have one player who everybody associates with that franchise. Al Attles is that guy for us. He's the face of our franchise for many generations of Warriors fans. We're lucky to have him."
Honors and Recognition
Attles' No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors, a rare honor reflecting his profound impact on the team. His contributions to the game were further recognized when he was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. In 2014, the Hall of Fame also honored him with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, underscoring his lifelong dedication to basketball.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Attles was known for his humanitarian efforts and his deep connection to the Bay Area community. The Warriors released a statement reflecting on his broader legacy: "Alvin 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 "Al" Attles' story is one of dedication, excellence, and unwavering loyalty. From his early days as a dynamic guard to his trailblazing path as a coach and executive, he embodied the spirit and heart of the Warriors. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, both on and off the court.