The Golden State Warriors and the NBA community are mourning the loss of a true icon. Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, affectionately known as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, passed away at the age of 87. Surrounded by family at his home, the news of Attles' passing has reverberated throughout the basketball world, marking the end of an era defined by grit, humility, and unwavering dedication.
Attles' impact on the Warriors and the NBA spanned an astonishing six decades. Drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960 after a stellar collegiate career at North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds, Attles quickly made his mark as a formidable player. Over his 11-year playing career, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game, carving out a reputation as a relentless competitor.
A Historic Career
Alvin Attles was the second-leading scorer with 17 points when Wilt Chamberlain famously scored 100 points in a single game in 1962. But Attles' contributions extended far beyond his playing days. In 1969, he broke new ground by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA. His coaching career, spanning from 1968 to 1983, was marked by a respectable record of 557-518 (.518).
Perhaps his crowning coaching achievement came in the 1974-75 season, when he led the Warriors to the franchise's second championship with a remarkable 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets. Following his coaching career, Attles transitioned to the role of general manager from 1983 to 1986. It was in this capacity that he drafted future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft.
Legacy and Recognition
Attles' contributions to the Warriors were recognized with the retirement of his No. 16 jersey, and in 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2019, his remarkable journey through basketball was further validated with his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Attles' 60-year involvement with the Warriors stands as the longest association with a single team in NBA history, a testament to his enduring influence and significance.
To those who knew him best, Attles was more than just a coach or a player. He was a mentor, a role model, and a guiding light. Warriors legend Rick Barry, who played under Attles during the 1975 championship season, expressed his deep sorrow: "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 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."
Chris Mullin, who was drafted by Attles, echoed similar sentiments: "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."
A Lasting Impact
The Golden State Warriors organization also paid homage to their beloved figurehead: "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' story is one of perseverance, leadership, and humility. His legacy within the Warriors organization and the broader NBA community is indelible, serving as a timeless example of athlete excellence and human decency. While his presence will be sorely missed, the principles he stood for will continue to inspire generations to come.