NBA Coach Al Attles Dies at 87
- Warriors Hall of Famer Al Attles, one of NBA's first Black head coaches, dies at 87.
- Attles passed away in his East Bay home surrounded by family.
- Known as 'The Destroyer', he dedicated his career to the Warriors after being drafted in 1960.
— Al Attles, a revered figure in basketball and a Hall of Famer, has passed away at the age of 87. Attles, who coached the Golden State Warriors to their 1975 NBA championship, dedicated over six decades to the franchise in various roles, including player, general manager, and team ambassador. His legacy as one of the first Black head coaches in the NBA is marked by his significant contributions to the sport. Attles was a player during one of basketball's most iconic moments, participating in Wilt Chamberlain's legendary 100-point game in 1962. He scored 17 points in that game, showcasing his talent on the court. Former teammate Rick Barry reflected on Attles' mentorship, emphasizing the invaluable life lessons he imparted beyond basketball. Barry acknowledged the unique nature of comparing players across eras, highlighting Attles' humility and respect for the game. As he approached his Hall of Fame induction in 2019, Attles remained a beloved figure within the Warriors organization. Head coach Steve Kerr described him as "the face of the franchise" for six decades, underscoring his enduring presence and influence. Despite health challenges that kept him away from games during the 2018-19 season, Attles made a triumphant return during the NBA Finals, receiving a warm welcome from fans. Born on November 7, 1936, in Newark, New Jersey, Attles received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the 2017 Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award and induction into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 1993. His impact on basketball and the Warriors will be remembered for generations.