Remembering Al Attles: A Pillar of Warriors' History
The Golden State Warriors family and the broader basketball community are mourning the loss of a true legend. Alvin "Al" Attles, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87, left an indelible mark on the sport and the Bay Area. His career with the Warriors spanned multiple roles, from standout player to influential coach and general manager, embodying dedication and excellence throughout.
Drafted and Proven
Attles' journey with the Warriors began in 1960 when he was drafted in the fifth round of the NBA draft by the Philadelphia Warriors. Standing at 6-foot-0, Attles was an effective guard who made his presence felt on the court. Over an impressive 11-season playing career, he played 711 games, consistently delivering solid performances.
During his time as a player, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. Attles was also a key player in one of the most historic games in NBA history. On March 2, 1962, when Wilt Chamberlain set the NBA record by scoring 100 points against the New York Knicks, Attles contributed 11 points, solidifying his place in the annals of basketball history.
Trailblazing Coach to Championship Leader
Transitioning seamlessly from player to coach, Attles broke barriers in 1970 when he became one of the NBA's first Black head coaches. His leadership and tactical acumen were quickly recognized, culminating in one of the greatest achievements of his career—guiding the Warriors to the 1975 NBA championship with a four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets. His coaching prowess earned him a revered spot among the NBA’s elite.
Executive Roles and Continued Impact
Attles' contributions to the Warriors didn’t stop at coaching. He served as the team’s general manager for three seasons and held various other roles, including vice president and consultant. The Warriors showed their deep appreciation for Attles by retiring his No. 16 jersey, a testament to his monumental impact on the franchise.
Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievements
Attles’ storied career was further honored when he was enshrined into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2019. His legacy was acknowledged with the John R. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award by the Hall of Fame in 2014, cementing his place as a titan of the sport.
A Legacy Beyond the Court
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Attles was deeply admired for his character and the positive influence he had on the community. Reflecting on his contributions, the Warriors stated, "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 poignantly summarized Attles' significance to the franchise, stating, "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."
As the basketball world mourns the loss of Al Attles, his contributions to the game and his unwavering presence in the Warriors organization will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. From player to coach to executive, Attles' legacy is a rich tapestry of dedication, excellence, and impact—a true pillar of Warriors' history.