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. Surrounded by family at his home, Attles, affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, leaves behind a legacy that spans over six decades in the NBA.
A Storied Career
Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, Attles quickly made a name for himself. At North Carolina A&T, he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, setting the stage for a successful professional career. Over 11 years, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds, notably scoring 17 points in Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game in 1962.
Attles' contributions were not limited to his playing days. In 1969, he broke barriers by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. As a coach from 1968 to 1983, he compiled a record of 557-518, including leading the Warriors to the franchise's second championship in the 1974-75 season with a remarkable 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Beyond the Court
After his coaching career, Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. During this time, he drafted Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft, setting the foundation for future success. Attles' contributions to the Warriors were so impactful that his No. 16 jersey was retired by the team. In recognition of his lifelong dedication, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
Lasting Legacy
Attles' involvement with the Warriors lasted an unparalleled 60 years, making it the longest tenure in NBA history. His influence extended far beyond his statistical achievements, as attested by those who knew him personally and professionally.
Rick Barry, a Hall of Famer and former teammate, shared, "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."
An Indelible Influence
Chris Mullin, another Hall of Famer, echoed Barry's sentiments, saying, "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."
A True Warrior
The Golden State Warriors organization also released a heartfelt statement: "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' storied career and lifetime commitment to basketball make his loss deeply felt across the NBA and beyond. His enduring influence as a player, coach, and executive ensures that his legacy will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.