Alvin “Al” Attles, a significant figure in the Golden State Warriors organization for over 60 years, died at his East Bay, California home on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the age of 87. His passing was officially announced by the team the following day, with the disclosure that his family was by his side during his final moments.
Often referred to as “The Destroyer” due to his aggressive defensive play, Attles dedicated his entire professional basketball career to the Warriors. He began as a player, having been drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, and then transitioned into roles as a coach, general manager, and community ambassador. Over 11 seasons, Attles averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. He was also instrumental in Wilt Chamberlain’s historic 100-point game in 1962, contributing 17 points himself.
After his player days ended, Attles took on the role of player-coach in 1970 and by 1971, he was the full-time head coach of the Warriors, a position he held until 1983. He led the team to an NBA Championship in 1975, sweeping the Washington Bullets in four games. This made Attles one of the first Black coaches to secure an NBA title. When he eventually stepped down from coaching, Attles had accumulated 557 wins, the most in franchise history.
In a public statement, the Golden State Warriors declared that Alvin Attles was not just an embodiment of a Warrior; he was “Mr. Warrior.” His tenacity and determination on the court earned him the endearing nickname of “The Destroyer.”
The team also highlighted that despite his powerful presence on the court, Attles was known for his gentle demeanor, elegance, and modesty off the court. These traits made him a stable and influential figure within the organization for many years. The team released this statement as part of their tribute to him following his death.
Following his coaching career, Attles stayed connected with the Warriors as general manager, vice president, and eventually as a consultant and ambassador. He played a significant role in drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin, further establishing his legacy as a key builder of the franchise.
Beyond his contributions on the court and in the front office, Attles was a cherished figure in the Bay Area, regularly participating in community events and representing the franchise. His contributions were acknowledged through numerous honors, including the 2014 John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2017 National Basketball Coaches Association’s Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award.
In 2019, Attles was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, an appropriate honor for a man whose career spanned multiple generations of basketball.
Attles is survived by his wife, Wilhelmina, and their children. His lasting legacy will continue through the numerous lives he influenced and the enduring impact he had on the Warriors franchise and the sport of basketball.
