Legendary Hall of Famer Al Attles, who also coached the Golden State Warriors during their 1975 NBA season and led them to championship-winning glory passed away on Wednesday at the age of 87. Attles spent over 60 years with the organization as a player, general manager, and brand ambassador.
Nicknamed “The Destroyer” the 6-foot guard averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds in 711 games with the Warriors over 11 seasons. These impressive feats earned him the utmost respect and recognition, so much so that his No. 16 jersey was retired by the franchise.
“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.”
During his player years, he was with Wilt Chamberlain when he played his 100-point game for the Philadelphia Warriors in Hershey, Pennsylvania, on March 2, 1962, in that game, Attles made all eight of his field goal tries for 17 points.
He also coached Hall of Famer Rick Barry who also elaborated on the Warrior’s release “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 a 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.” The release said.
