The Golden State Warriors and the larger basketball community are in mourning following the passing of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles. Affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his ferocious style on the court, Attles passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family at the age of 87. His death marks the end of a remarkable six-decade-long relationship with the Warriors and a significant chapter in NBA history.
Remembering Alvin Attles
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Alvin Attles made his mark in basketball from an early age. He attended North Carolina A&T, where he showcased his talent by averaging 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. His skills caught the attention of the Philadelphia Warriors, who drafted him in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA Draft. Thus began an extraordinary journey with a franchise that would eventually relocate to San Francisco and become known as the Golden State Warriors.
Attles played for 11 years, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Most memorably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points in the legendary game when Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in 1962. His fierce competitive spirit and leadership abilities on the court would earn him the position of head coach in 1969, making him one of the first Black head coaches in NBA history.
Coaching Achievements
As a coach, Attles compiled a commendable record of 557 wins and 518 losses over his career, achieving a winning percentage of .518. His most notable coaching achievement came in the 1974-75 season when he led the Warriors to their second NBA championship. The team swept the Washington Bullets in a remarkable 4-0 series, solidifying his legacy as a formidable coach.
“My heart is heavy today with the loss of my mentor and friend,” shared Rick Barry, a pivotal player during the championship run. “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.”
Transition to Management
After concluding his coaching career in 1983, Attles transitioned into the role of general manager, a position he held until 1986. During his tenure as GM, Attles made significant decisions that shaped the future of the Warriors. One outstanding decision was drafting Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin, reflecting on Attles' influence, stated, “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.”
Beyond his roles as player, coach, and general manager, Attles continuously served as a guiding light for the Warriors organization. His commitment to the team was unmatched, becoming an ambassador and an ever-present figure who influenced generations of players and staff alike. His 60-year involvement with the Warriors is the longest ever in NBA history, an enduring testament to his dedication and impact.
Honors and Legacy
In recognition of his contributions, the Warriors retired Attles' No. 16 jersey. He also received the prestigious John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. These honors reflect not only his achievements on the court but also his profound influence on the game of basketball and the community.
The Golden State Warriors released a statement encapsulating Attles' profound legacy: “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' impact on the Golden State Warriors and the sport of basketball is indelible. His leadership, dedication, and humanity will be remembered and cherished by his family, friends, and fans. As the basketball world reflects on his incredible life and career, Alvin Attles’ legacy as a true Warrior will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.