Golden State Warriors Mourn the Loss of Alvin Attles, 'The Destroyer'
Golden State Warriors Mourn the Loss of Alvin Attles, 'The Destroyer'
The Golden State Warriors and the basketball community are grieving the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Known affectionately as "The Destroyer" for his tenacious playing style, Attles left an indelible mark on the Warriors and the NBA over a career that spanned more than six decades.
An Incomparable Career
Born in Newark, New Jersey, and a standout at North Carolina A&T, Attles was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. During his collegiate career, he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds per game, setting the stage for an impactful NBA career. Attles played for 11 years with the Warriors franchise, amassing career averages of 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. He was also the second-leading scorer with 17 points when Wilt Chamberlain famously scored 100 points in a single game in 1962.
Trailblazing Coaching Career
Alvin Attles broke significant barriers when he became one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA in 1969. Throughout a coaching career that lasted from 1968 to 1983, Attles achieved a coaching record of 557-518 (.518). Under his leadership, the Warriors secured their second franchise championship in the 1974-75 season, triumphing in a 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Transition to Management
Following his coaching career, Attles transitioned to the front office, serving as the Warriors' general manager from 1983 to 1986. In this role, he made notable decisions, including drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Mullin, among many others, credits Attles for guiding him both personally and professionally, stating, "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."
A Lasting Legacy
In acknowledgment of his immense contributions to the Warriors, the franchise retired Attles' No. 16 jersey. In 2014, he received the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2019, he was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. His 60-year involvement with the Warriors is the longest in NBA history.
Rick Barry, another Hall of Famer and former Warriors player, reflected on the profound impact Attles had on his life and career. "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."
A True Warrior
The Golden State Warriors released a heartfelt statement, encapsulating the sentiment of many within the organization and the broader basketball community. "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."
Attles leaves behind a profound legacy within the game of basketball and the Bay Area community. His devotion to his family was ever apparent, and he leaves behind his wife, Wilhelmina, and son, Alvin, who were by his side during his final moments. "We mourn his loss alongside his wife, Wilhelmina, son Alvin, and all who knew and loved him," the Warriors' statement concluded.
Alvin Attles' life was one of remarkable achievements and unparalleled influence, creating a blueprint of excellence, integrity, and humility for generations to follow. His everlasting contributions to the sport and to the Warriors will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
