Alvin "Al" Attles, a beloved figure in the world of professional basketball and an enduring symbol of the Golden State Warriors, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. His legacy, spanning over decades, is felt not only within the walls of the Warriors organization but also throughout the basketball community.
A Career Spanning Decades
Attles' tenure with the Warriors began when he was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing at 6-foot-0, Attles played as a guard and quickly became known for his tenacity and skill on the court. Over his 11-season career, he played in 711 games, maintaining an average of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. One of his standout moments came on March 2, 1962, when he scored 11 points in the historic game where Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks.
As significant as Attles' playing days were, his contributions off the court were equally impactful. In 1970, Attles made history by becoming one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. Just five years later, he guided the Warriors to their first NBA championship in nearly two decades with a four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets in the 1975 finals. This victory cemented his status as a pivotal figure in the team's history.
Beyond Coaching
Attles' influence continued to permeate the Warriors organization in various capacities beyond his coaching career. He took on the role of general manager for three seasons and later served as vice president and consultant. His long-standing association with the franchise earned him the nickname "Mr. Warrior." Reflecting on Attles' immense impact, Warriors coach Steve Kerr remarked, "Most of the great organizations with a lot of history have one player who everybody associates with that franchise. Al Attles is that guy for us. He's the face of our franchise for many generations of Warriors fans. We're lucky to have him."
A Legacy Honored
In recognition of his invaluable contributions, the Warriors retired Attles' No. 16 jersey, an honor reserved for the most influential figures in sports. His legacy was further solidified in 2019 when he was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his lasting influence on the game. Additionally, the Hall of Fame honored him with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, underscoring his remarkable career and dedication to the sport.
More Than a Basketball Icon
While Al Attles' professional achievements are numerous, his character and commitment to the Bay Area community and his family were equally noteworthy. The Warriors issued a heartfelt statement, emphasizing this aspect of his legacy: "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."
For generations of Warriors fans and the extended basketball community, Attles will always be remembered not just for his contributions to the game but for his unwavering dedication to the team and the community he cherished. His life and career serve as a testament to the enduring impact one individual can have on a sport, an organization, and countless lives.