Remembering Alvin "Al" Attles: A Bay Area Legend
Alvin "Al" Attles, an enduring figure in the history of the Golden State Warriors and a significant presence in the basketball community, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. Attles' passing marks the end of an era for the Warriors, where he played pivotal roles over several decades, including those of player, coach, and general manager.
A Storied Career Begins
Attles' journey with the Warriors began when he was drafted in the fifth round of the 1960 NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing at 6-feet-0, Attles made his mark as a guard over 11 impressive seasons, participating in 711 games. His playing career saw him consistently contribute to his team, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
One of the most memorable moments in NBA history features Attles as a participant: the game on March 2, 1962, in which Wilt Chamberlain scored an unprecedented 100 points against the New York Knicks. Attles himself scored 11 points in that historic game, cementing his place in the annals of basketball lore.
Pioneering Coach and Championship Leader
In 1970, Attles broke new ground when he became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His tenure as head coach is perhaps best remembered for leading the Warriors to the 1975 NBA championship. Under his guidance, the Warriors executed a flawless four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets, a triumph that remains a significant highlight in the franchise's history.
Attles’ tenure with the Warriors wasn't limited to his coaching accomplishments. He ascended to the role of general manager for three seasons, further demonstrating his comprehensive understanding and deep dedication to the sport. Beyond these roles, he served in various capacities within the Warriors organization, including vice president and consultant.
A Lasting Legacy
The impact of Attles on the Warriors and the broader basketball community cannot be overstated. In recognition of his contributions, the Warriors retired his No. 16 jersey, permanently honoring his invaluable role in the team's history. This recognition was further cemented when Attles was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. Prior to this, in 2014, he was distinguished with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the Hall of Fame’s highest honors.
Reflecting on his profound influence, the Warriors released 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."
The Face of the Franchise
Warriors coach Steve Kerr spoke to Attles' lasting impact on the franchise, emphasizing the deep respect and admiration held for him: "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."
Attles' legacy is woven into the fabric of not just the Golden State Warriors, but the entire basketball community. His journey from player to coach, to general manager, is a testament to his enduring passion, commitment, and exceptional talent in the sport. While his physical presence will be deeply missed, the principles, achievements, and values he instilled within the Warriors and the NBA will continue to inspire future generations.