Alvin "Al" Attles, one of the most iconic figures in the history of the Golden State Warriors, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Attles' exceptional career spanned over several decades, making significant contributions as a player, coach, and general manager. The Warriors community and the larger NBA world mourn the loss of a legend who shaped the game and left an indelible mark on basketball history.
A Storied Playing Career
Al Attles was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing at just 6 feet tall, Attles played guard and quickly became known for his tenacity and skill on the court. Over the course of 11 seasons, he played 711 games, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Attles’ playing career is perhaps best remembered for a legendary moment on March 2, 1962, when he scored 11 points in the same game where his teammate Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks.
Pioneering Coach and Championship Success
In 1970, Attles transitioned from player to coach, becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. His coaching career reached its pinnacle in 1975 when he led the Warriors to an NBA championship with a decisive four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. This achievement cemented Attles' reputation as a masterful strategist and a trailblazer in the coaching world.
Executive Leadership and Enduring Legacy
Beyond his years on the court and the sidelines, Attles also left a lasting impact as an executive. He served as general manager of the Warriors for three seasons and took on various roles within the organization, including vice president and consultant. Under his leadership, the Warriors organization flourished, and his influence was felt across generations of fans and players.
In recognition of his numerous contributions, the Warriors retired Attles' No. 16 jersey, a rare honor that signifies his invaluable role in the team's history. His legacy was further solidified when he was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019, and he was honored with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014.
A Legacy of Humanity and Community
Al Attles is remembered not only for his achievements in basketball but also for his profound impact on the community. He was a family man, humanitarian, and a beloved figure in the Bay Area. The Warriors released a heartfelt statement in the wake of his passing, 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 also paid tribute to Attles, emphasizing his central role in the franchise's history. "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," Kerr stated.
Alvin "Al" Attles was a man of many roles and talents, whose life and career were defined by excellence, dedication, and a deep-seated love for the game of basketball. His influence extends beyond the stat sheets and the trophies; it is etched in the hearts of those who knew him and the countless fans who admired him from afar. As the basketball world bids farewell to Al Attles, his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come.