Golden State Warriors luminary Alvin “Al” Attles passed away at the age of 87 on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. The team announced his passing on Wednesday, stating he was surrounded by his family at his home in East Bay, California.
Affectionately known as “The Destroyer” due to his aggressive defense and physical play, Attles dedicated his entire professional basketball career to the Warriors. He began his journey as a player, drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960. Over his eleven-season career, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Attles played an instrumental role in Wilt Chamberlain’s historic 100-point game in 1962, contributing 17 points himself.
When Attles’ playing career ended, he transitioned to coaching, assuming the role of player-coach in 1970. By the following year, he had become the full-time head coach, a position he held until 1983. In 1975, Attles led the Warriors to an NBA Championship, securing a four-game sweep against the Washington Bullets. This achievement distinguished Attles as one of the first Black coaches to win an NBA title. When he concluded his coaching career, Attles had accumulated 557 wins, marking him as the most successful coach in the history of the franchise.
In a public statement, the Golden State Warriors acknowledged that Alvin Attles was more than just a symbol of what it meant to be a Warrior; he was fondly referred to as “Mr. Warrior.” His hard-nosed play style on the court led to his nickname “The Destroyer.”
Apart from his tenacious persona on the court, Attles was known for his gentle demeanor, grace, and humility off the court. These characteristics made him a consistent and inspiring presence within the organization for many years. The team shared these sentiments in their tribute following his passing.
After his coaching tenure, Attles continued his involvement with the Warriors as a general manager, vice president, and later as a consultant and ambassador. He was critical in drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin, further solidifying his legacy as a franchise builder.
Attles’ relationship with the Warriors extended beyond his on-court contributions and front-office roles. He was a cherished figure in the Bay Area, regularly participating in community events and serving as a representative for the franchise. His contributions were honored with several awards, including the John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014 and the National Basketball Coaches Association’s Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award in 2017.
In 2019, Attles was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, an apt honor for a man whose career spanned multiple eras of basketball.
Attles is survived by his wife, Wilhelmina, and their children. His legacy will continue through the numerous lives he influenced and his lasting impact on the Warriors franchise and the sport of basketball.
