The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community are mourning the loss of Hall of Famer Alvin Attles, who passed away at the age of 87. Fondly known as "The Destroyer" for his fierce playing style, Attles' influence on the Warriors and the NBA spanned over six decades, cementing a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
Surrounded by family at his home, Alvin Attles departed peacefully, leaving behind a life rich with achievements and impact. Attles first joined the NBA when he was drafted in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, after an impressive college career at North Carolina A&T, where he averaged 13.1 points and 3.3 rebounds.
A Journey from Player to Coach
Over his 11-year playing career, Attles posted solid statistics, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.5 rebounds. Notably, he was the second-leading scorer with 17 points during Wilt Chamberlain's historic 100-point game in 1962. In 1969, Attles broke barriers by becoming one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA, a role he excelled in from 1968 to 1983, achieving a coaching record of 557-518 (.518). His tenure included leading the Warriors to their second championship in the 1974-75 season with a 4-0 sweep over the Washington Bullets.
Transition to General Manager
Following his coaching career, Attles transitioned to the front office, serving as the Warriors' general manager from 1983 to 1986. One of his notable decisions in this role was drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin with the seventh overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft. Attles' profound impact on the team is immortalized by the fact that his No. 16 jersey is retired by the Warriors.
Remembering a Legend
Attles' contributions to the Warriors and the sport were recognized with the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014, and his induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019. Over his 60-year involvement with the Warriors, the longest in NBA history, Alvin Attles epitomized dedication and resilience.
Rick Barry, who played under Attles during the Warriors' 1975 championship run, shared heartfelt memories: "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, another player who flourished under Attles' wing, reflected on Attles' influence: "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."
The Golden State Warriors organization also issued a moving statement, emphasizing his indelible mark on the team: "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’ passing is a significant loss, but his legacy of tenacity, leadership, and grace will continue to inspire the Warriors, the NBA, and the countless lives he touched.