In a solemn announcement, the Golden State Warriors have shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of Alvin Attles, a legendary figure whose legacy has left an indelible mark on the NBA. Attles, who was 87 at the time of his passing, was surrounded by his loving family at his home.
Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his aggressive playing style on the court, Attles' influence on basketball extended over six remarkable decades. He was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960 after a robust college career at North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds per game.
Unprecedented Tenure with the Warriors
Alvin Attles' tenure with the Warriors is unparalleled in NBA history. A consistent performer on the court, he played for 11 years, notching up averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. Attles etched his name into the annals of basketball history during Wilt Chamberlain's iconic 100-point game in 1962, finishing as the second-leading scorer with 17 points.
Pioneering Coach and General Manager
Famed for his transition from player to coach, Attles broke new ground in 1969 when he became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career, which spanned from 1968 to 1983, saw him amass a record of 557-518. Perhaps his crowning achievement as a coach came in the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to their second franchise championship with a dominant 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Attles' influence extended beyond the sidelines. He transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986, a period during which he made significant moves, including drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft.
A Warrior Through and Through
Rick Barry, a close confidant and basketball luminary, shared heartfelt recollections about Attles. "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."
A Beacon of Integrity
Chris Mullin, another key figure influenced by Attles, underscored his mentor’s colossal impact: "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 Lasting Legacy
The Golden State Warriors, in their official statement, encapsulated Attles' monumental 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."
In recognition of his services, Attles was honored with several accolades. His No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors, a testament to his enduring influence. In 2014, he was bestowed with the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, his illustrious career was solidified with an induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
The breadth and depth of Alvin Attles' association with the Warriors, stretching over six decades, remain unmatched in NBA history. While the basketball world mourns his passing, Alvin Attles’ legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans alike.