“He has flourished in every role and responsibility over the last 60 years, from player to coach to general manager and, most recently, as an ambassador. And he’s done it with an incredible amount of class and humility.” Joe Lacob, the majority owner of the Warriors, previously expressed his sentiment after the sad passing away of Alvin Attles. On August 20, the sad news hit the dub nation, and the franchise will follow up with a tribute during the home opener.

As per the statement from the Golden State, “In honor of the late Alvin Attles, a moment of silence will take place before the game. Additionally, all fans in attendance will receive an Al Attles pin to celebrate his legacy.” Mr. Warrior was 87 when he passed away and spent 60-plus years with the franchise.

Starting as a player in the year 1960, when the Philadelphia Warriors chose him as the fifth-round draft choice. Thus, his affiliation over 60 years represents the longest stint with a single franchise for any one person in NBA history. Alvin Attles also holds the record for most coaching wins in the Bay Area team’s history (557).

He was also instrumental in leading the Warriors to the Championship in 1975, as they were an underdog team at the time. In his 13-year coaching spell, he would guide them to its first championship in the team’s West Coast Era. That too with a 4-0 series sweep over the Washington Bullets in the 1975 NBA Finals. The franchise also paid a fitting tribute as he was the second player in the team’s history to have the jersey retired.

Mr. Destroyer is also only the 6th Warriors player in history to receive such an honor. A month ago, the franchise also announced another way to honor the Hall of Famer: A ‘16’ band on their uniforms throughout the 2024-25 season to continue the legacy of Al Attles. The jersey band is located above the Rakuten badge, on the upper left side of the uniform. And there’s no denying that everyone, not just respected him, but loved him.

People will forever remember Alvin Attles

Every year, the Golden State gives an award for his immense contributions. The Warriors present the Alvin Attles Community Impact Award to a player who positively impacted the lives of underserved youths in the Bay Area. Harrison Barnes was the inaugural winner. Since then, many players like Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Stephen Curry have all earned the honor.

Curry even shared an emotional message on his social media after hearing the news. “Very sad day for the whole Bay Area and all @warriors fans. Al Attles was a pioneer of professionalism, courage, competitiveness and blazed his own trail every step of the way. His DNA is all over this organization. Forever in our hearts and the rafters #16.”

Even Draymond Green added, “Job well done🙏🏽You will be missed💙💛.” From player to player-coach to coach, Alvin Attles transitioned seamlessly, and not to forget his other roles post-coaching. He would also serve as a team ambassador and community relations representative and that’s why worked for 60 years with the Warriors. Truly a legend!