Alvin "Al" Attles, a towering figure in the basketball world and a beloved member of the Bay Area community, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Attles' association with the Warriors franchise spanned decades, during which he left an indelible mark as a player, coach, and executive.
A Storied Career
The Philadelphia Warriors selected Attles in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA Draft. Standing 6-foot-0, Attles played as a guard and spent his entire 11-season playing career with the Warriors, appearing in 711 games. Throughout his time on the court, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. One of the memorable highlights of his playing career came on March 2, 1962, when he scored 11 points during the historic game in which Wilt Chamberlain set an NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks.
Trailblazing Coach
In 1970, Attles transitioned to coaching and became one of the NBA’s first Black head coaches. His leadership and strategic acumen were on full display when he guided the Warriors to the 1975 NBA championship, executing a remarkable four-game sweep against the Washington Bullets. His contributions off the court were as significant as those on it, as he later served as the general manager of the Warriors for three seasons.
An Enduring Legacy
Attles' legacy with the Warriors is multifaceted. Beyond his roles as a player and coach, he held various positions within the organization, including vice president and consultant. In recognition of his contributions, the Warriors retired his No. 16 jersey, immortalizing his impact on the franchise.
His accomplishments were not confined solely to team accolades. In 2014, the Hall of Fame honored Attles with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, emphasizing the scope of his influence on the game of basketball. Five years later, in 2019, he was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, solidifying his place among the sport's greats.
A Touching Tribute
Alvin Attles leaves behind a legacy not just within the sport but also within the community. The Warriors issued a heartfelt statement: "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."
Warriors coach Steve Kerr also reflected on Attles' enduring significance to the franchise. "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."
Alvin Attles' life and career illustrated the profound impact one individual can have within and beyond the realm of sports. His dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring his legacy endures long after his passing.