Alvin "Al" Attles, a revered figure in the world of basketball and a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors' legacy, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Attles' impact on the Warriors organization spanned decades, defined by his roles as a player, coach, and executive, leaving an indelible mark on the team and the broader basketball community.
A Storied Playing Career
Attles' journey with the Warriors began when he was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing 6 feet tall, Attles played as a guard, showcasing his skills over an 11-season career that saw him participate in 711 games. During his playing days, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. One of his memorable performances includes scoring 11 points in the historic game where Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks on March 2, 1962. Attles' consistent performances made him a reliable and respected player on the court.
Pioneering Coach and Championship Leader
In 1970, Attles transitioned from player to coach, becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. His influence on the bench was immediate and profound, culminating in one of the most celebrated moments in Warriors history. In 1975, Attles guided the Warriors to an NBA championship with a dominant four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. His coaching acumen and leadership cemented his reputation as a trailblazer and champion in the coaching realm.
Executive Excellence
Beyond his coaching tenure, Attles also excelled in executive roles within the Warriors organization. He served as the general manager for three seasons, contributing to the strategic and operational facets of the team. Over the years, Attles held various vital positions, including vice president and consultant, each time bringing his wealth of experience and deep commitment to the franchise.
Honors and Legacy
The Warriors organization and the broader basketball world have continually recognized Attles' contributions. The team retired his No. 16 jersey, an honor reserved for the most influential players. In 2014, he received the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Further cementing his legacy, Attles was enshrined in the Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019, a testament to his significant impact on and off the court.
Enduring Influence
Reflecting on Attles' profound legacy, the Warriors issued a heartfelt statement: "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 acknowledged Attles' lasting impact, saying, "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."
Alvin Attles' life and career are a testament to dedication, leadership, and excellence in basketball. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans, preserving his memory as a pivotal figure in the rich history of the Golden State Warriors and the NBA.