Alvin "Al" Attles, a figure synonymous with the Golden State Warriors, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87, leaving behind a profound legacy in the world of basketball and the broader community.
Attles’ storied association with the Warriors spanned several decades, showcasing his versatility and commitment to the sport. Drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors, he began his professional career as a 6-foot-0 guard. Over the course of 11 seasons, he played an impressive 711 games, achieving noteworthy averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. One of his most memorable moments on the court was scoring 11 points during the historic game on March 2, 1962, when Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks.
Transitioning from player to coach, Attles broke barriers as one of the NBA's first Black head coaches in 1970. His leadership and strategic acumen were distinctly evident in 1975 when he guided the Warriors to an NBA championship, defeating the Washington Bullets in a decisive four-game sweep. His tenure as the head coach not only showcased his ability to lead but also solidified his standing as a crucial pillar of the Warriors' history.
Beyond the court, Attles continued to influence the game in various capacities. He served as the Warriors' general manager for three seasons, taking on roles that included vice president and consultant, further embedding his legacy within the organization. Reflecting on his enduring impact, the Warriors retired Attles' No. 16 jersey, a testament to his invaluable contributions to the franchise.
Attles’ contribution to basketball was recognized at the highest levels of the sport. In 2014, he was honored with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a prelude to his enshrinement in the Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. These accolades serve as formal recognition of his sustained excellence and dedication to the game.
"A Profound Legacy"
The news of Attles' passing prompted heartfelt tributes from many within the basketball community. The Warriors released a statement that encapsulated the essence of his legacy: "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."
"The Face of Our Franchise"
Warriors coach Steve Kerr also reflected on Attles' unique role within the organization: "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."
Indeed, Al Attles' influence on the Warriors and the broader basketball community cannot be overstated. His journey from a determined player to a pioneering coach and respected executive tells the story of a man who not only loved the game but also dedicated his life to it. His legacy will continue to inspire Warriors fans and the basketball community for generations to come.