The basketball world mourns the loss of a true legend, as the Golden State Warriors announced the passing of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles at the age of 87. Known affectionately as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' influence on the Warriors and the NBA spanned over six decades.
Early Years and Playing Career
Attles was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. His basketball journey began at North Carolina A&T, where he showcased his skills by averaging 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. Over an 11-year playing career, he maintained solid performance metrics with averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
One of his most memorable moments came on March 2, 1962, when Wilt Chamberlain scored an unprecedented 100 points in a single game. Attles, who was the second-leading scorer in that game with 17 points, earned his place in basketball history.
Pioneering Coaching Career
In 1969, Attles broke new ground by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career, which spanned from 1968 to 1983, was marked by a record of 557-518 (.518). The pinnacle of his coaching success came during the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to the franchise's second championship, sweeping the Washington Bullets in a 4-0 victory.
Transition to Management and Legacy
Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986, making significant contributions off the court as well. As a general manager, he made the pivotal decision to draft Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, a move that would shape the future of the Warriors.
Honoring his lengthy contribution, the Warriors retired Attles' No. 16 jersey. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Over his 60-year involvement with the Warriors, Attles set the standard for dedication and excellence, marking the longest tenure in NBA history.
Remembering Attles
As the Warriors and the broader NBA community look back on Attles' contributions, former players and colleagues have shared their heartfelt reflections. Rick Barry, a former teammate and player under Attles' coaching, expressed his deep sorrow: "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. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Wilhelmina, and his entire family. He will be dearly missed."
Chris Mullin, whom Attles drafted, also 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."
Warriors' Statement
The Golden State Warriors organization also released a statement in tribute to Attles: "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' impact on the game of basketball and the lives he touched will never be forgotten. His legacy as a fierce competitor on the court and a compassionate leader off it stands as a testament to his extraordinary life.