On a somber day for the Golden State Warriors and the wider basketball community, the team is mourning the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87 surrounded by family at his home.
Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles' impact on the Warriors and the NBA spanned over six decades. His career is a testament to dedication and resilience, a rare trait that he carried from his early days as a player through his remarkable journey as a coach, general manager, and esteemed ambassador.
A Storied Career
Alvin Attles' legacy in basketball began when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. A product of North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, Attles would soon make his mark. He played for 11 years, boasting averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points in the historic game when Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in 1962.
In 1969, Attles became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, a role he embraced with fervor. His coaching tenacity was evident from 1968 to 1983, during which he compiled a record of 557-518 (.518). The pinnacle of his coaching career was leading the Warriors to the franchise's second championship in the 1974-75 season with a spirited 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
A Guiding Force for the Warriors
Following his coaching tenure, Attles transitioned to become the Warriors' general manager from 1983 to 1986. As general manager, he made a pivotal decision in drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, a move that would solidify the team’s future.
Reflecting on the profound influence Attles had on him, Chris Mullin shared, "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."
Unmatched Dedication
Attles' commitment to the Warriors was unparalleled. His 60-year involvement with the franchise is the longest in NBA history. During these years, he embodied the values of professionalism and class, traits that were always in the forefront whether on the court or off. His No. 16 jersey was appropriately retired by the Warriors, symbolizing his lasting influence on the team and the game of basketball.
In recognition of his contributions, Attles received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019—testimonies to his enduring legacy.
A Legacy Remembered
Rick Barry, another legend of the game, expressed his deep sense of loss: "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."
The Golden State Warriors also paid tribute, 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. 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’ contributions to the Warriors and to basketball at large are monumental. His life and career paint a picture of a man profoundly dedicated not only to the game but to the people around him. As the Warriors and the broader basketball community reflect on his legacy, there is no doubt that Alvin Attles’ spirit, lessons, and achievements will endure, inspiring generations to come.