The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community are mourning the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, at the age of 87. Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' legacy with the Warriors and the NBA is unparalleled, spanning over six remarkable decades.
A Storied Career
Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles’ journey through professional basketball began with modest expectations but ultimately became monumental. During his 11-year playing career, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. One of his notable playing career highlights was scoring 17 points as the second-leading scorer during Wilt Chamberlain’s historic 100-point game in 1962.
Attles’ college career at North Carolina A&T set the stage for his professional life, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. His on-the-court tenacity was only matched by his excellence as a leader, both as a player and coach.
Pioneering Coaching Career
In 1969, Attles broke barriers by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career spanned from 1968 to 1983, with an impressive record of 557-518 (.518). Under his leadership, the Warriors clinched their second championship title in the 1974-75 season, sweeping the Washington Bullets in a memorable 4-0 series.
Reflecting on his coach and mentor, NBA legend Rick Barry shared heartfelt sentiments: “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.”
Transition to Management
After his coaching tenure, Attles transitioned to the front office, serving as the general manager of the Warriors from 1983 to 1986. In this role, he made pivotal decisions that shaped the team’s future, including drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin, who later became an NBA Hall of Famer, reflected on Attles’ profound influence: “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 Lasting Legacy
Alvin Attles’ No. 16 jersey is retired by the Warriors, a testament to his lasting impact on the franchise. His contributions to basketball were further solidified when he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
The Golden State Warriors released a statement honoring Attles’ 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.”
Attles’ 60-year involvement with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history, underscoring his deep-rooted dedication to the team and the sport. His career, filled with monumental achievements and milestones, has left an indelible mark on the NBA and the countless lives he touched. The basketball world bids farewell to a legend, mentor, and pioneer, whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.