Jerry West, the legendary figure who inspired the NBA’s logo, passed away peacefully at his home at the age of 86, as announced by the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday.
West’s contributions to basketball spanned eight decades, during which he amassed nine championships in various roles including player, scout, coach, executive, and consultant.
He was pivotal in building the Los Angeles Lakers’ dynasties of the 1980s and 2000s and later served as an advisor to the Golden State Warriors.
Before his executive success, West was one of the NBA’s original superstars. His illustrious playing career included accolades such as 12 All-NBA selections, 14 All-Star Game appearances, and five All-Defensive Team honors, all with the Lakers. Despite reaching the NBA Finals nine times, West secured just one championship, often facing defeat against Bill Russell’s Boston Celtics. Remarkably, he remains the only player to win the Finals MVP on a losing team, a feat he achieved in 1969.
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West was known for his exceptional scoring ability, notably before the three-point line existed, and his clutch performances, epitomized by a famous 60-foot buzzer-beater in the 1970 Finals.
His career averages were impressive, with 27 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game.
As an executive, West’s keen eye for talent led to the formation of the Lakers’ “Showtime” era in the 1980s, and he was instrumental in acquiring Shaquille O’Neal and trading for Kobe Bryant’s draft rights.
His efforts contributed to the Lakers’ dominance into the early 2000s. West later influenced the Golden State Warriors, helping shape their modern dynasty before moving on to a similar role with the L.A. Clippers, where he played a key role in bringing in stars like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
In 2019, West was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Despite his professional success, West faced personal challenges, including a difficult childhood and the loss of his brother during the Korean War. He was an advocate for mental health, openly discussing his struggles with depression in his memoir, “West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life.”
Jerry West’s legacy in the NBA is unparalleled, not only as a competitor but as a builder and advocate. His influence on the game and the lives he touched will be remembered for generations.
