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. Known affectionately as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' six-decade-long impact on the Warriors and the NBA is unmatched. He was surrounded by family at his home at the time of his passing.
A Legendary Player and Coach
Alvin Attles' journey in professional basketball began when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. At North Carolina A&T, he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, showcasing a potential that he would fully realize in the NBA. Playing for 11 years, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, and was the second-leading scorer with 17 points when Wilt Chamberlain famously scored 100 points in a single game in 1962.
Attles became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA in 1969. His coaching career spanned 15 years, from 1968 to 1983, and included a 557-518 record. Perhaps his most significant achievement as a coach came in the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to the franchise's second championship, sweeping the Washington Bullets 4-0 in the Finals.
Transition to Management
Following his coaching career, Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. During his tenure, he made significant decisions that shaped the Warriors' future, including drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. “This is a difficult day for me," said Mullin. "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."
A Lifetime of Achievement
Attles' contributions were recognized formally when his No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. His 60-year involvement with the Warriors stands as the longest in NBA history.
Remembering Attles
Reflecting on Attles' legacy, Rick Barry, a key player in the Warriors’ 1975 championship team, shared heartfelt memories: "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." Barry emphasized how Attles' influence extended beyond tactical knowledge, touching on the mentor's profound impact on players' lives off the court as well.
The Golden State Warriors organization also honored Attles, recognizing him as more than just a figure within the team but as "Mr. Warrior." "Alvin Attles did not just epitomize what it meant to be a Warrior -- he was Mr. Warrior," read the statement. "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."
In mourning his loss, the Warriors highlighted Attles' unparalleled contributions to the team and the sport: "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."
Alvin Attles leaves behind a legacy that transcends the basketball court. As the Warriors and the entire NBA family remember his remarkable contributions, his influence will undoubtedly endure in the values and standards he set for future generations.