The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community are mourning the loss of one of their most cherished figures, Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. His tenure with the Warriors spanned over an astonishing 60 years, marking the longest involvement with a single NBA franchise in the league's history. Attles was not just a player, coach, and executive; he was the heart and soul of the organization.
A Storied Career
Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his robust and tenacious playing style, Alvin Attles made a remarkable impact on the court and off it. Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles quickly became an integral part of the team. During his playing career, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds over 11 years. His memorable performance came in 1962 when he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game.
Attles attended North Carolina A&T, where he showcased his skills with an average of 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. This collegiate success translated seamlessly into his professional career.
A Pioneer Coach
In 1969, Attles broke significant ground by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career, which spanned from 1968 to 1983, included a commendable record of 557-518. A highlight came during the 1974-75 season, when Attles led the Warriors to their second championship with a stunning 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Attles' influence extended beyond the court. He transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986, during which he made a pivotal decision by drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin would go on to become a key figure for the Warriors and an NBA legend in his own right.
A Lasting Legacy
Attles' No. 16 jersey hangs in the rafters, retired by the Warriors in honor of his unparalleled contributions. In recognition of his lifelong commitment and impact on the game, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
Heartfelt Tributes
The news of Attles' passing prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from the basketball community. Rick Barry, who shared many memorable moments with Attles, expressed his grief 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 echoed these sentiments, highlighting Attles' pivotal role in his career: "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."
A Warrior in Every Sense
The Golden State Warriors organization also paid tribute, capturing the essence of Attles' legacy: "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' departure leaves a void, but his legacy endures, forever etched in the annals of the NBA and the hearts of those who knew him. His life serves as a testament to dedication, integrity, and humbleness—qualities that resonate beyond basketball, inspiring generations to come.