It is with heavy hearts that the Golden State Warriors announce the passing of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, a legendary figure whose impact on the team and the NBA spanned over six decades. Attles, affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, passed away at the age of 87, surrounded by family at his home.
A Storied Career
Alvin Attles' journey with the Warriors began in 1960 when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors. His college years at North Carolina A&T saw him averaging 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, showcasing early signs of the formidable player he would become. Throughout his 11-year playing career, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game in 1962.
Transition to Coaching and Management
In 1969, Attles broke barriers by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career, which spanned from 1968 to 1983, included leading the Warriors to their second franchise championship in the 1974-75 season with a 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets. Attles compiled an impressive coaching record of 557-518 (.518).
Post-coaching, Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. In this capacity, he was instrumental in drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, further solidifying his legacy within the organization.
Lasting Legacy
Alvin Attles' contributions were recognized with the retirement of his No. 16 jersey by the Warriors, the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, and his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. His 60-year involvement with the Warriors remains the longest in NBA history, exemplifying his unwavering commitment and influence.
Tributes from the Basketball Community
Former Warriors star Rick Barry shared his deep sense of loss, reminiscing his relationship with Attles: "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."
Chris Mullin, a key player drafted by Attles, also expressed his grief and admiration: "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."
Remembering a True Warrior
The Golden State Warriors themselves, in a heartfelt statement, conveyed the profound impact Attles had on the organization: "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."
Attles' enduring legacy, marked by his exemplary character and unparalleled contributions to the Golden State Warriors, will forever be etched in the annals of NBA history. His spirit and influence will continue to inspire generations of players, coaches, and fans alike.