NBA Legend Al Attles Dead at 87 – Warriors Mourn Hall of Famer!

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By: Mike

Passing of Al Attles: A Warriors Icon

Al Attles, a revered figure in the NBA known for his roles as a player, coach, and executive, primarily with the Warriors franchise, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. His time in the NBA spanned several decades, during which he left a significant imprint on the sport.

A Symbol of Warrior Spirit

The Warriors organization expressed deep sentiments about Attles’ influence, describing him as the embodiment of the Warrior spirit. Known as ‘The Destroyer’ during his playing days due to his intense playing style, Attles was equally celebrated for his character off the court—marked by kindness, grace, and humility—that profoundly influenced the Warriors’ culture over an extensive period.

Al Attles’ association with the Warriors began in 1961 and continued until 1971 as a player, after which he transitioned to coaching the team from 1970 until 1983. His tenure with the Warriors extended over six decades in various capacities, illustrating his long-term commitment and impact on the franchise.

Remarkable Career Highlights

Born in Newark, New Jersey and a graduate of North Carolina A&T, Attles made noteworthy contributions on the court. He maintained a career average in double-digit scoring and consistently ranked among the NBA’s top 20 in assists during his playing years.

In his final years as a player, Attles took on the role of player-coach, a rare responsibility in the NBA. His leadership peaked in 1975 when he guided the Warriors to an NBA Championship. This victory was historic, as it featured the first NBA Finals led by two Black head coaches, with Attles facing off against K.C. Jones of the Washington Bullets.

The legacy of Al Attles, marked by his fierce competitiveness on the court and his gentle leadership off it, remains a guiding light for the Warriors and an inspiration in the world of basketball.


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