Alvin "Al" Attles, a revered figure in basketball history and a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors organization, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. His contributions to the sport and his team span multiple decades, reflecting his unwavering dedication as a player, coach, and executive.
Attles entered the NBA as a fifth-round draft pick by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. Standing at 6-foot-0, he carved out a significant role as a guard over his 11-season career, playing 711 games. During his time on the court, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. Notably, Attles was an integral part of the historic game on March 2, 1962, when Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks; Attles contributed 11 points in that iconic match.
Transitioning from player to coach, Attles broke new ground in 1970, becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 1975 with a decisive four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. This milestone marked a significant achievement in the team’s history and solidified Attles’ status as a legendary figure in the sport.
After his coaching tenure, Attles continued to serve the Warriors as general manager for three seasons, further influencing the team’s direction and success. His roles within the organization were diverse and impactful, ranging from vice president to consultant, showcasing his versatility and deep commitment to the team. In recognition of his profound impact, the Warriors retired his No. 16 jersey, a lasting tribute to his legacy.
Attles’ contributions extended beyond direct team roles. In 2014, he was honored with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, an acknowledgment of his enduring influence on the game. Five years later, in 2019, he was enshrined into the Hall of Fame, a reflection of his extraordinary career and his pivotal role in the evolution of basketball.
The Warriors community has expressed deep sorrow at Attles' passing. In a statement, the organization said, “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.”
Warriors coach Steve Kerr also paid tribute to Attles, noting, “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.”
Attles’ impact on basketball and his community is immeasurable. His dedication, talent, and leadership have left an indelible mark on the Warriors organization and the sport as a whole. His passing is a significant loss, but his legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations. The basketball world and the Bay Area community remember Alvin "Al" Attles with respect and admiration, celebrating a life well-lived and a career that has set a high standard for excellence and commitment.