Alvin Attles, who was recognized by being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019, became a member of the Philadelphia Warriors in 1960 after being picked in the fifth round of the draft. He has been associated with the franchise for over 60 years, making his duration the longest in NBA history with a single team,” the Warriors declared. “He is one of only six players in Warriors history to have his jersey number retired (#16), joining Rick Barry (#24), Wilt Chamberlain (#13), Tom Meschery (#14), Chris Mullin (#17), and Nate Thurmond (#42).
Throughout his tenure with the Warriors, Attles participated in 711 contests, averaging 8.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists during his career. He wrapped up his playing years as a player-coach.
After his playing days, he embraced coaching full-time, guiding the Warriors to a sweep over the Washington Bullets in the 1975 NBA Finals.
“I am profoundly saddened by the passing of my mentor and friend,” Barry expressed. “Al was my roommate during my rookie season in the league. He imparted crucial lessons about professionalism that transcended what could be acquired solely on the basketball court.”
“As our coach during the championship-winning year in 1975, he exemplified remarkable leadership, cohesion, and strategic awareness that propelled us to perform at the highest level. We forged many treasured memories together. My thoughts are with his wife, Wilhelmina, and his entire family. He will be sorely missed.”
Mullin conveyed his sentiments, stating: “Today is a challenging day for me. Alvin Attles had a considerable impact on my life and career—not only by selecting me in 1985 and bringing me to the Bay Area but also by guiding me throughout my growth as a player and as a young man, through both trials and victories. He was a dear friend, mentor, and role model, someone I admired greatly and aspired to imitate. He set the standard for integrity and humility and was an exceptional champion both on the court and in life. There will never be another Alvin Attles.”
