The Golden State Warriors and the broader NBA community are mourning the loss of a true legend, Alvin Attles. Fondly known as "The Destroyer" for his fierce playing style, Attles passed away at his home, surrounded by family, at the age of 87.
Alvin Attles' journey with basketball and the Warriors began in 1960 when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors. His collegiate career at North Carolina A&T was stellar, averaging 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds. As a player, Attles' 11-year career saw him average 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, highlighting his significant contribution on the court. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points when Wilt Chamberlain scored his record 100 points in a game in 1962, cementing his role in one of basketball's most iconic moments.
In 1969, Attles became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, a role he would excel in for the next 15 years. His coaching career, from 1968 to 1983, saw him amass a record of 557-518 (.518). His most significant achievement came during the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to their second championship, defeating the Washington Bullets in a 4-0 sweep.
Rick Barry, a key player in that championship team, reflected on Attles' profound influence. "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."
Attles' significant contributions extended beyond his coaching career. From 1983 to 1986, he served as the Warriors' general manager, a period highlighted by drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft – a decision that would shape the future of the franchise. Mullin himself expressed deep gratitude and admiration for Attles, 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."
Attles' dedication to the Warriors did not go unrecognized. His contributions over six decades, the longest tenure with a single NBA team, were celebrated when his No. 16 jersey was retired by the team. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, he was deservedly inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame – honors that underscore his lasting impact on the game.
In a heartfelt statement, the Golden State Warriors summarized Attles’ legacy beautifully: "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 was marked by an unwavering commitment to excellence and a profound impact on the Warriors, the NBA, and the wider community. His legacy as a player, coach, mentor, and friend endures, reminding all who knew him of the virtues of integrity, humility, and dedication.