On Tuesday, August 20, 2024, Alvin “Al” Attles, a figure central to the Golden State Warriors for more than 60 years, died at his East Bay, California residence at the age of 87. The Warriors released the information on Wednesday, stating that Attles was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his death.
Attles, nicknamed “The Destroyer” for his relentless defense and aggressive play, spent his entire professional basketball career with the Warriors. He started as a player, then transitioned into roles as a coach, general manager, and later community ambassador. He was selected by the Philadelphia Warriors in the 1960 draft and played 11 seasons, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He played a key role in Wilt Chamberlain’s record-breaking 100-point game in 1962, contributing 17 points.
Following his playing career, Attles started coaching, becoming player-coach in 1970 and taking over as full-time head coach by 1971. He led the Warriors until 1983, securing an NBA Championship in 1975 after defeating the Washington Bullets in a four-game sweep. This feat made Attles one of the first Black coaches to win an NBA title. By the end of his coaching tenure, Attles had secured 557 victories, the most by any coach in the franchise’s history.
The Golden State Warriors, in a public statement, emphasized that Alvin Attles, known as “Mr. Warrior,” epitomized what it meant to be a Warrior. His aggressive playstyle on the court earned him the nickname “The Destroyer.”
Beyond his assertive playing style, the team highlighted Attles’ grace, humility, and gentle nature off the court. These attributes made him a steady and inspiring presence within the organization for several decades.
After his coaching tenure, Attles continued his involvement with the Warriors as general manager, vice president, and eventually as a consultant and ambassador. He played a crucial role in drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin, further establishing his legacy as a key franchise builder.
Beyond his on-court contributions and front-office roles, Attles was a cherished figure in the Bay Area, California, frequently participating in community events and representing the franchise. His contributions were acknowledged with numerous honors, 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, a fitting acknowledgment for a man whose influence spanned multiple generations of the sport.
Attles is survived by his wife, Wilhelmina, and their children. His enduring legacy will continue to impact the Warriors organization and the sport of basketball as a whole.
