A Legend Remembered: The Life and Legacy of Alvin Attles
The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community mourn the loss of a revered figure, Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away peacefully at the age of 87, surrounded by his family. Attles, affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his relentless playing style, leaves behind an indelible mark on the NBA and the Warriors organization, spanning an incredible six-decade-long career.Rising Star to Formidable Player
Alvin Attles' journey to prominence began when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. Before turning professional, he made his mark at North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. Attles' determination and skill on the court quickly earned him a reputation as a fierce competitor. Over 11 years, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, contributing significantly to his team's successes, including being the second-leading scorer with 17 points on the night Wilt Chamberlain famously scored 100 points in 1962.Pioneering Coach and Leader
Transitioning to coaching, Attles broke barriers in 1969 by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching tenure with the Warriors from 1968 to 1983 was marked by achievement and perseverance. His record of 557-518 (.518) is a testament to his strategic acumen and leadership qualities. Attles' coaching prowess reached its pinnacle during the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to their second championship with a stunning 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.Game-Changer Off the Court
Beyond his coaching career, Attles continued to shape the Warriors' legacy as their general manager from 1983 to 1986. One of his significant achievements in this role was drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin would go on to become one of the franchise's greatest players, a testament to Attles' eye for talent and his enduring impact on the team.Lifetime of Recognition and Respect
Attles' contributions did not go unnoticed. The Warriors honored him by retiring his No. 16 jersey, and in 2014, he was awarded the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to the game. His illustrious career culminated with his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019, a fitting tribute to a man whose involvement with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history at 60 years.A Mentor and Friend
The respect and admiration Attles commanded is evident from the heartfelt tributes by those who knew him. Rick Barry, a former Warriors player, expressed his sorrow and gratitude: "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 similar 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 itself highlighted Attles' profound impact: "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."
Attles' life was one of remarkable achievements and unwavering integrity. As the basketball world bids farewell to "The Destroyer," his legacy as a player, coach, mentor, and pioneer will endure. Alvin Attles' contributions to the Golden State Warriors and the NBA will remain etched in the annals of history, inspiring future generations to embody the same dedication, humility, and excellence that defined his extraordinary life.