Al Attles, a legendary figure in the world of basketball and a cherished member of the Golden State Warriors family, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87.
The Warriors announced his passing on Wednesday, noting that Al Attles died peacefully at his home in East Bay, California, surrounded by his loved ones.
Al Attles was a Hall of Famer and an iconic point guard, famously known as “The Destroyer” for his tough playing style.
He was not only a remarkable player but also an NBA champion coach and a dedicated general manager for the Warriors. His legacy within the basketball community and the Bay Area will be remembered for generations.
A Storied NBA Career
Al Attles began his NBA journey in 1960 when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors. He made an immediate impact on the court and was part of one of the most famous games in NBA history. On March 2, 1962, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Attles scored 17 points in a game where his teammate, Wilt Chamberlain, made history by scoring 100 points.
In 1962, Al Attles moved with the Warriors to San Francisco and continued to play until the 1970-71 season. Over his 11-year playing career, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists across 711 games.
Coaching and Leadership
In his final season as a player, Al Attles took on the role of player-coach for the Warriors. He continued as the head coach until 1983, leading the team to an unforgettable NBA championship victory in 1975. The Warriors swept the Washington Bullets in the NBA Finals, and Attles became the second Black coach in history to win an NBA title, following Bill Russell.
Attles’ coaching career with the Warriors was marked by success, with a record of 557-518. He later served as the team’s general manager, assistant coach, and even took on roles in the front office as vice president and consultant. His commitment to the Warriors spanned over six decades, making him one of the most influential figures in the organization’s history.
Remembering a Legend
Chris Mullin, a former Warriors star, paid tribute to Attles, saying, “Alvin Attles had a huge, positive influence on me and my career. He not only drafted me in 1985 but also guided me through my journey as a player and a young man. He was a dear friend, mentor, and role model. He set the standard for integrity and humility and was truly a champion on and off the court.”
In 2019, Al Attles was honored with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His No. 16 jersey was retired by the Warriors, cementing his place as a true legend in the franchise’s history.
Attles leaves behind a lasting legacy, not only as a basketball icon but also as a family man and humanitarian. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Wilhelmina, his son Alvin, and all who knew and admired him.
