The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community are mourning the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Attles, a legendary figure known affectionately as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, left an indelible mark on the sport over six decades.
A Storied Career
Attles' journey with the Warriors began when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. A graduate of North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, he quickly established himself as a crucial player for the team. Over his 11-year playing career, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. He was also the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game in 1962.
After his playing career, Attles transitioned seamlessly into coaching. In 1969, he became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, a role he held until 1983. His coaching career was highlighted by leading the Warriors to the franchise's second championship in the 1974-75 season, sweeping the Washington Bullets in a stunning 4-0 series. His coaching record stood at an impressive 557-518 (.518).
Leadership Beyond the Court
Following his coaching stint, Attles took on the role of General Manager from 1983 to 1986. One of his notable achievements in this position was drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin would go on to have a Hall of Fame career himself, crediting much of his early success to Attles' guidance.
Rick Barry, a key player during Attles' coaching tenure, shared his heartfelt sentiments. "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 Legacy of Integrity and Humility
Attles' contributions extended far beyond statistics and championships. Chris Mullin eloquently reflected on Attles' impact, stating, "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."
Indeed, Attles' integrity and humility were cornerstones of his legacy. His jersey, No. 16, is retired by the Warriors, a testament to his enduring influence. In recognition of his remarkable contributions to basketball, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
The Longest Tenure in NBA History
Attles' 60-year involvement with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history, a fact that underscores his unparalleled dedication to the sport and the franchise. The Warriors, in a statement, captured the essence of what Attles represented: "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' life and career were marked by exceptional accomplishments and an enduring commitment to excellence. As the Warriors and the NBA community come to terms with his passing, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations, embodying the very spirit of what it means to be a Warrior.