Alvin "Al" Attles, a towering figure in the history of the Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. His departure leaves a profound void, but his legacy endures through his extensive contributions to the game as a player, coach, and executive.
A Lifelong Warrior
Attles' association with the Warriors began in 1960 when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing at six feet tall, Attles played as a guard, carving out an impressive 11-season career during which he played in 711 games. His career averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game reflect his steady and reliable presence on the court.
One of his most memorable moments as a player came on March 2, 1962. In a game now etched into basketball lore, Attles scored 11 points while his teammate, Wilt Chamberlain, set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks.
A Trailblazing Coach
In 1970, Attles transitioned to coaching and made history by becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. Under his stewardship, the Warriors reached new heights. The pinnacle of his coaching career came in 1975 when he led Golden State to an NBA championship with a dominant four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. His success as a coach not only strengthened his bond with the franchise but also etched his name into basketball history.
From the Court to the Front Office
Attles' contributions to the Warriors extended beyond the court and the bench. He served as the team's general manager for three seasons and held various other roles, including vice president and consultant, over the years. His long-standing commitment to the organization earned him widespread respect and admiration.
The Warriors retired his No. 16 jersey, a testament to his enduring impact on the franchise. In recognition of his considerable achievements, Attles was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. Years earlier, in 2014, he was also honored by the Hall of Fame with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award.
A Legacy of Sportsmanship and Humanity
Attles' influence extended beyond the basketball court. He is remembered fondly not only for his contributions to the game but also for his role as a family man and humanitarian. Reflecting on his legacy, the Warriors released a statement acknowledging his wide-reaching impact: "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' central role within the franchise: "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."
While Attles' passing marks the end of an era, his contributions to basketball and his enduring legacy as a role model and innovator in the sport will continue to inspire future generations. His life and career remain a testament to dedication, excellence, and the profound impact one individual can have on a community and a sport.