Alvin “Al” Attles, a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors organization for over six decades, passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 87. The team announced his death on Wednesday, noting that his family surrounded him in his East Bay home in California.
Known as “The Destroyer” for his defensive tenacity and physical play, Attles spent his entire professional basketball career with the Warriors, first as a player and then as a coach, general manager, and community ambassador. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960, and over 11 seasons, he averaged 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. Attles also played a crucial role in Wilt Chamberlain’s legendary 100-point game in 1962, contributing 17 points of his own.
After his playing days, Attles transitioned into coaching, taking on the role of player-coach in 1970. By 1971, he became the full-time head coach, leading the Warriors until 1983. In 1975, he guided the team to an NBA Championship, defeating the Washington Bullets in a four-game sweep. This achievement made Attles one of the first Black coaches to win an NBA title. By the time he stepped down from coaching, Attles had amassed 557 wins, making him the winningest coach in franchise history.
The Golden State Warriors made it clear in a public statement that Alvin Attles wasn’t just a representation of what it meant to be a Warrior; he was considered “Mr. Warrior.” His aggressive and determined play on the basketball court led to the affectionate moniker of “The Destroyer.”
The team also emphasized that beyond his tough exterior as a player, Attles was known for his gentle nature, grace, and humility off the court. These qualities made him a steady and inspirational figure throughout the organization for decades. The team shared this statement as part of their tribute following his passing.
Following his coaching career, Attles remained involved with the Warriors as general manager, vice president, and eventually as a consultant and ambassador. He was instrumental in drafting future Hall of Famer Chris Mullin, further cementing his legacy as a franchise builder.
Attles’ connection to the Warriors went beyond his contributions on the court and in the front office. He was a beloved figure in the Bay Area, often participating in community events and acting as an ambassador for the franchise. His contributions were recognized with several 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 tribute to a man whose career spanned multiple generations of basketball.
Attles is survived by his wife, Wilhelmina, and their children. His legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the ongoing impact he had on the Warriors franchise and the game of basketball.