Basketball Legend Alvin "Al" Attles Passes Away at 87
The basketball community is mourning the loss of Alvin "Al" Attles, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Attles, who spent over five decades with the Warriors organization, left an indelible mark as a player, coach, and general manager. His passing signals the end of an era for the countless lives he touched both on and off the court.
Attles was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors, embarking on a professional journey that would see him become one of the most beloved figures in the sport. Standing at 6-foot-0, Attles played as a guard, showcasing tenacity and skill over 11 seasons in the NBA. In a career spanning 711 games, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Attles' performance was especially notable in the historic game on March 2, 1962, where he scored 11 points as Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks.
Transitioning into his role as a coach, Attles broke new ground as one of the NBA's first Black head coaches in 1970. Under his leadership, the 1975 Warriors achieved a stunning four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets, clinching an NBA championship that remains one of the defining moments in the team's storied history. He continued to serve the Warriors in various capacities, including general manager, vice president, and consultant, solidifying his integral presence within the organization.
Attles’ influence extended well beyond the courtside and the executive offices. His jersey, No. 16, was retired by the Warriors, a testament to his lasting legacy. His contributions to basketball were recognized on a national stage when he was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. Additionally, the Hall of Fame honored him with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, underscoring his profound impact on the sport.
In a statement, the Warriors expressed their deep sorrow: "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." These sentiments reflect the broader community’s respect and admiration for Attles, who was more than just a sports figure; he was a beacon of integrity and commitment.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr also paid tribute to Attles, highlighting his importance to the franchise: "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." Kerr’s words capture the essence of Attles' role as a cultural and inspirational cornerstone of the Warriors’ enduring legacy.
While the news of his passing brings a wave of sadness, it simultaneously calls for a celebration of a life extraordinarily lived. Al Attles’ commitment to the Warriors and the wider basketball community serves as a benchmark for all who follow in his footsteps. His life’s work will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us all of the lasting impact one individual can have through dedication, passion, and humanity.