Alvin Attles, a towering figure in NBA history and an iconic member of the Golden State Warriors family, has passed away at the age of 87. Attles died surrounded by family at his East Bay home, leaving behind a legacy that spans more than six decades with the Warriors organization.
Attles’ journey with the Warriors began in the 1960s when he joined the Philadelphia Warriors, the franchise that would eventually become the Golden State Warriors. His 11-year playing career was defined by his tenacity, leadership, and defensive prowess, which made him a formidable force on the court.
After retiring as a player, Attles transitioned into coaching, taking the helm of the Warriors from 1970 to 1983. Under his guidance, the team achieved significant success, including a historic NBA Championship in 1975. His coaching career was marked by a deep understanding of the game and an ability to inspire his players.
Even after retiring from coaching, Attles remained deeply connected to the Warriors, serving in various roles such as team ambassador and advisor. His dedication to the franchise and its fans made him a beloved figure in the basketball community, a testament to his unparalleled loyalty and passion for the sport.
The impact of Attles’ career was widely recognized, culminating in his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. His contributions to basketball and the Warriors organization will continue to resonate with fans and players alike.
Mark Burke shared on Facebook, "Larger than life man I met at a basketball camp at USF in the 1970’s when he was coach of the Warriors. He left quite an impression on me, with his gravellly voice and his massive presence in a fine suit… RIP Coach Al Attles!"
Paul Hackett remembered, "I loved it in 1975 in the finals against the Washington Bullets. He came off the bench to defend Rick Barry, who was in a scuffle with Mike Reardon."
Chris Gaggero simply posted, "RIP Coach!"
As the basketball world mourns the loss of Alvin Attles, his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on the game of basketball. The Golden State Warriors and the broader basketball community extend their deepest condolences to Attles’ family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.