Golden State Warriors Mourn the Loss of Alvin Attles
The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community mourn the loss of Alvin Attles, a Hall of Famer whose remarkable life and career left an indelible mark on the sport. Attles passed away at the age of 87, surrounded by family at his home.
Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' influence on the Warriors and the NBA spanned over six decades. Drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles soon became a cornerstone of the team. He attended North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. Over an 11-year playing career, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, highlighting his all-around capabilities on the court.
A Remarkable Playing Career
Attles was a key contributor to one of the most memorable games in NBA history, recording 17 points as Wilt Chamberlain scored his legendary 100 points in a 1962 game. But it wasn't just his scoring that stood out; his fierce competitive spirit and leadership were traits that endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
A Pioneer in Coaching
In 1969, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career spanned from 1968 to 1983, during which he amassed a record of 557-518 (.518). Perhaps his most notable achievement came in the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to the franchise's second championship with a 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Rick Barry, who played under Attles during the championship season, deeply felt his loss. "My heart is heavy today with the loss of my mentor and friend," Barry remarked. "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."
Transition to Management
After his coaching tenure, Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. During this period, he made one of his most impactful decisions by drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin, who would go on to have a Hall of Fame career, credits Attles for much of his development. "This is a difficult day for me," Mullin lamented. "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."
A Lasting Legacy
Attles' No. 16 jersey hangs retired in the rafters of the Warriors' arena, a testament to his enduring influence and contributions. His accolades include the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. Attles' 60-year involvement with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history, highlighting his remarkable commitment to the franchise.
In a statement, the Golden State Warriors conveyed the depth of Attles' impact on the organization and the community. "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."
The Warriors added, "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."
Attles leaves behind his wife, Wilhelmina, and son, Alvin, along with a multitude of admirers and friends who cherished his wisdom, kindness, and dedication. As the basketball world reflects on his monumental contributions, Alvin Attles' legacy as a Warrior in the truest sense will endure.