The Golden State Warriors are deeply mourning the loss of one of their most iconic figures, Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles was surrounded by family at his home at the time of his passing, marking the end of an era that spanned over six decades of unparalleled dedication to the Warriors and the sport of basketball.
A Legacy Like No Other
Attles' journey began when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. Holding an average of 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds during his time at North Carolina A&T, Attles quickly proved his worth on the professional stage. Over the course of his 11-year playing career, he maintained impressive averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
One of the most memorable moments of his playing career was being the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game in 1962. This was only the beginning of Attles' profound impact on the Warriors.
Breaking Barriers as a Coach
In 1969, Attles became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. He initially started his coaching journey in 1968 and continued until 1983, compiling a record of 557-518 (.518). One of the pinnacle achievements of his coaching career was leading the Warriors to their second franchise championship in the 1974-75 season, sweeping the Washington Bullets 4-0 in a series that remains etched in Warriors lore.
Transition to Management
Following his coaching career, Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. In this capacity, he made significant contributions, including drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, thereby setting the stage for the next era of Warriors success.
Eternal Honors
In recognition of his contributions, Attles' No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors, a testament to his lasting impact on the team. His exceptional service to the game was further acknowledged with the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, followed by his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
Attles’ continuous involvement with the franchise for over 60 years is the longest in NBA history, epitomizing a life dedicated to basketball and the Golden State Warriors.
Remembering the Man Behind the Legend
Notable figures from the Warriors community have expressed their heartfelt condolences and admiration for Attles. Rick Barry, one of the team’s all-time greats, remarked, "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."
Chris Mullin, another Warriors legend, shared his sentiments: "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."
The Warriors organization also issued a heartfelt statement, emphasizing Attles' profound influence: "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."
Alvin Attles leaves behind a legacy that is rich, inspirational, and enduring. His contributions to the Golden State Warriors and the NBA are indelible, and his memory will be cherished by all who had the fortune of witnessing his remarkable life.