The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community are mourning the loss of Alvin Attles, a beloved Hall of Famer, who passed away at the age of 87. Attles, affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his relentless playing style, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family.
A Lifelong Warrior
Alvin Attles' impact on the Warriors spanned over six decades, making him the figure most synonymous with the franchise. Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, he embarked on an 11-year playing career where he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Attles was also the second-leading scorer in the historic game where Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in 1962, contributing 17 points.
Following his playing days, Attles broke barriers by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA in 1969. He coached the Warriors from 1968 to 1983, accumulating a coaching record of 557-518, and led the team to a championship victory in the 1974-75 season with a remarkable 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
A Multifaceted Legacy
Attles' contributions were not confined to the basketball court. Transitioning to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986, he was instrumental in drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, laying the groundwork for future success.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, Attles' No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors. He also received the prestigious John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019, cementing his legacy in the annals of basketball history.
Remembrances and Tributes
The impact Attles had on those around him is evident in the heartfelt tributes from former players and the organization. Rick Barry, who played under Attles during the 1975 championship season, shared his sorrow and deep respect for his former mentor and friend. "My heart is heavy today with the loss of my mentor and friend," Barry said. "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."
Chris Mullin, drafted by Attles, expressed the profound influence Attles had on his life and career. "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."
A Pillar of the Warriors Organization
The Warriors themselves released a statement reflecting on Attles' enduring legacy. "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' 60-year involvement with the Warriors is the longest tenure in NBA history, a testament to his unwavering dedication and impact. As the basketball world reflects on his remarkable life, it is clear that Alvin Attles leaves an indelible mark, not just as a player, coach, and executive, but as a cherished mentor, friend, and role model.