“Rip Alvin Attles”: Tragic death of a Warriors legend leaves NBA legends and fans in despair

Loyalty unto death seems like an exaggerated phrase. But Alvin Attles took it to heart and respected it to the fullest. The league has lost one of its cornerstones that shaped modern society. Attles, an icon of the Golden State Warriors, died today at the age of 87 surrounded by his family. Nicknamed the “Destroyer,” Attles was associated with the Bay for 60 years, the longest time any player in history has spent with one organization.

The Warriors' PR team has reached out to X to announce the passing of the franchise's longest-serving legend. Attles was more than a franchise legend or a cornerstone. He was a beacon of development and evolution. The Hall of Famer, drafted in 1960, played for Philadelphia and the Warriors during his 11-year playing career.

“The Golden State Warriors mourn the loss of franchise legend Alvin Attles, who passed away yesterday at the age of 87. Alvin leaves behind a profound legacy in basketball and the Bay Area community, but especially as a family man and philanthropist. We mourn his passing, along with his wife Wilhelmina, his son Alvin and all who knew and loved him.” wrote the warriors.

For his immense contributions, the Warriors even named an award after him. The Alvin Attles Community Impact Award is given to a Warriors player who has made a positive impact on the lives of underprivileged youth in the Bay Area. The first award was given to Harrison Barnes. Since then, players like Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry have received the honor.

Likewise, not only some of the most respected names but also NBA fans shared their condolences.

Alvin Attles will always be remembered

The entire NBA community, especially the Warriors legends who played for him, were saddened by Attles' passing. Chris Mullin, who played for the franchise for 13 years, was drafted by the Destroyer. He wrote a heartfelt message to honor Attles' lifetime achievement.

“This is a difficult day for me. Alvin Attles had a tremendous, positive influence on me and my career. Not only did he sign me in 1985 and bring me to the Bay Area, but he was with me throughout my journey as a player and young man, through both good and difficult times. He was a dear friend, mentor and role model and someone I admired immensely and tried to emulate. He set the standard for all of us in terms of integrity and humility and was a true champion both on and off the field. There will never be another Alvin Attles.” he wrote.

NBA fans also prayed for the Attles family and celebrated the life of one of the franchise's outstanding heroes. “Rest in peace, Alvin Attles” was a widely held opinion in the community. And for good reason, because he had made history with the Warriors at every stage of his life.

In his final two seasons, Alvin Attles decided to become a player-coach with the Warriors. For the next 13 years, he coached the Bay Area team and led them to a championship, becoming the first black coach to receive that honor. He went on to serve in every role imaginable, from executive director to general manager and, most importantly, community leader.

For the previous generation, Alvin Attles was a trailblazer. Every legend who speaks of him speaks highly of him and raves about his selflessness and authenticity. “My dad (RIP) always mentioned his name when we talked about the Dubs! God bless you and RIP” commented one fan.

As part of the Warriors, Attles coached the team the longest. In his illustrious career as a coach, he won 557 games with a winning percentage of over 51%, the highest number in franchise history; Kerr was the only other coach to achieve more than 500 wins. He was also one of only six players whose iconic number 16 was no longer used by the franchise. Attles was a true legend, a groundbreaking force for both the NBA and the league.

“He taught me valuable lessons about professional conduct that cannot be learned on the field. Later, as our coach during the 1975 championship season, he was a model of leadership, unity and a strong strategic mind that helped us succeed at the highest level. We shared so many wonderful and unforgettable moments together. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Wilhelmina and his entire family. He will be greatly missed.”. These are the words of his former roommate Rick Barry and they perfectly symbolize the influence Attles has had on generations.