The basketball community is mourning the loss of Alvin "Al" Attles, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Attles, whose name is synonymous with the Golden State Warriors, made an indelible mark on the team and the sport over several decades as a player, coach, and general manager.
Drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors, Attles quickly became a staple of the team. Standing at 6-foot-0, he played as a guard, participating in 711 games over 11 seasons. His career averages stood at a respectable 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. One of his notable performances includes scoring 11 points during Wilt Chamberlain's record-breaking 100-point game against the New York Knicks on March 2, 1962.
Trailblazing Coach and Leader
In 1970, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. His leadership was soon evident when he guided the Warriors to the 1975 NBA Championship, securing the title with a four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. His tenure as a coach was not just about the wins; his presence provided inspiration and hope during a transformative era for the league.
After his coaching career, Attles transitioned into management, serving as the Warriors' general manager for three seasons. His influence within the organization didn't end there. He held various roles, including vice president and consultant, each position reflecting his deep commitment to the team's success and the sport's growth.
A Lasting Legacy
Attles' contributions have not gone unrecognized. His No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors, a symbol of his lasting impact on the franchise. In 2014, the Hall of Fame honored Attles with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and he was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. These accolades underscore the high regard in which he was held, both on and off the court.
His passing has prompted reflections on his enduring legacy within the basketball community. "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," stated the Warriors in a heartfelt tribute.
The Face of the Franchise
Current Warriors coach Steve Kerr echoed these sentiments, highlighting Attles' iconic status: "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."
Indeed, Attles' influence on the Warriors is immeasurable. He was more than just a player or a coach; he was an embodiment of the team's spirit and history. His dedication and contributions helped shape the identity of the Warriors, ensuring his legacy will be remembered by future generations.
As the basketball world says goodbye to Alvin "Al" Attles, it's clear that his impact will resonate for years to come. His life and career serve as a testament to the power of dedication, leadership, and heart in the world of sports.