The Golden State Warriors and the world of basketball are mourning the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Fondly known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' impact on the Warriors and the NBA spanned more than six decades, making him an iconic figure in the sport.
Attles’ journey began in 1960 when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors. Known for his resilience and dedication, he played for 11 years, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points in the historic game where Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in 1962.
His prowess on the court was matched by his leadership off it. In 1969, Attles became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, a significant milestone during a time of social change in America. He went on to coach the Warriors from 1968 to 1983, amassing a record of 557-518 (.518). His crowning achievement came in the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to their second championship with a 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Transitioning from coach to executive, Attles served as the Warriors' general manager from 1983 to 1986. It was during this tenure that he made the pivotal decision to draft Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin, reflecting on Attles' impact, said, "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."
Even after stepping down as general manager, Attles remained a vital part of the Warriors organization. His No. 16 jersey has been retired by the team, a testament to his enduring legacy. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among the greatest in the sport.
Rick Barry, another Warriors legend, shared his heartfelt memories, saying, "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."
The Warriors organization echoed these sentiments, stating, "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."
Attles' 60-year association with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history, underscoring his commitment and influence. While his achievements on the court were significant, it was his character and dedication off it that left an indelible mark on those who knew him. As the Warriors and the broader basketball community mourn his loss, they also celebrate a life dedicated to the game, marked by tremendous contributions and countless memories.
Surrounded by family at his home at the time of his passing, Attles leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community. The sentiments from his former players and the Warriors organization reflect not just his professional accomplishments but also his role as a mentor, friend, and exemplar of integrity and humility.
Alvin Attles is survived by his wife, Wilhelmina, and his son, Alvin. His remarkable journey through basketball, from player to coach to executive, is a testament to his enduring spirit and passion for the game. As Chris Mullin aptly put it, "There will never be another Alvin Attles." His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding all of what it truly means to be a Warrior.