Alvin "Al" Attles, a revered figure in basketball and a pioneer for African Americans in coaching, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Attles' tenure with the Warriors is legendary, spanning his roles as a player, coach, and general manager. His legacy is etched not just in the annals of NBA history but also within the community that he touched profoundly.
A Storied Playing Career
Attles was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing at 6 feet tall, he carved out a significant career as a guard. During his 11-season stint in the league, he played a commendable 711 games. As a player, Attles delivered solid performances, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
One of the highlights of his playing career came on March 2, 1962, when Attles scored 11 points in the historic game where Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks. This game, forever etched in the collective memory of basketball enthusiasts, also underlined Attles' role as a reliable contributor on a historic night.
Trailblazing Coach and General Manager
In 1970, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. Under his leadership, the Warriors achieved one of their most celebrated triumphs by clinching the 1975 NBA championship with a four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. This achievement underscored Attles' exceptional ability to inspire and strategize, bringing his team to the pinnacle of success.
Following his coaching career, Attles seamlessly transitioned into the role of general manager for the Warriors, serving in that capacity for three seasons. His administrative contributions were just as impactful as his on-court performances, providing a stable and vision-driven leadership that furthered the Warriors' growth.
Beyond the Sidelines
Even after his official roles concluded, Attles' presence remained a guiding force within the Warriors' organization. He took on various positions including that of vice president and consultant. His enduring influence ensured that the team always had a touchstone of wisdom and experience to rely on.
The Warriors' respect and admiration for Attles were evident when they retired his No. 16 jersey, a gesture that immortalizes his contributions. His exceptional impact on the game was further recognized beyond team accolades 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 Attles with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his lifelong dedication to basketball.
A Lasting Legacy
The magnitude of Attles' influence extends beyond the hardwood. The Warriors released a heartfelt statement, saying, "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."
Warriors coach Steve Kerr encapsulated Attles' impact eloquently, 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."
Attles' narrative is one of excellence, breaking barriers, and leaving an indelible mark on the sport and its community. His journey from a determined player to an inspiring leader serves as a testament to his resilience, vision, and passion for basketball. As the basketball world mourns his passing, Al Attles' legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding them of the heights that can be achieved with dedication and heart.