The basketball legend, Jerry West, widely recognized for his portrayal as the symbol in the NBA emblem, has passed away at 86 years old. In the history of basketball’s luminaries, scant few have left a mark as profound as West, attaining Hall of Fame distinction thrice and claiming victory in nine championships across diverse roles within the sport.
Fondly known as “Zeke from Cabin Creek,” West’s professional journey took root with the West Virginia Mountaineers, following which he was selected as the second overall pick by the Minneapolis Lakers in the 1960 NBA Draft. West embarked upon a remarkable 14-year odyssey in the realm of professional basketball, featuring in the All-Star games throughout every active season.
Noteworthy achievements in his career encompass steering the Lakers to nine NBA Finals as a player, earning the Finals MVP in 1969 and securing a championship in 1972. West also boasts an impressive array of accolades including ten appearances on the All-NBA First Team, four selections to the NBA All-Defensive First Team, a scoring crown in 1970, and leading in assists in 1972.
A standout moment on April 29, 1970, witnessed his extraordinary 60-foot field goal at the buzzer during Game 3 of the NBA Finals. This incredible feat enhanced his standing, earning him nicknames such as “Mr. Clutch” and “Mr. Outside.”
Interestingly, though the spectacular shot was executed from beyond the mid-court line, it was only regarded as two points at that time, leveling the playing field and propelling the Lakers to eventual triumph in overtime with a score of 11-108 against the New York Knicks.
Upon the conclusion of his playing tenure (1961-1974), West’s stats were exceptional, placing him third in total points scored (25,192), fourth in average points per game (27.0 ppg), second in successful free throws (7,160), and fifth in assists (6,238).
In addition to his on-court prowess, West transitioned to a coaching role with the Lakers, where he guided the team to an impressive record of 145-101. The pinnacle of his career came with his induction into the Hall of Fame in 1980, a distinction repeated in 2010 for his gold medal triumph with the 1960 Team USA squad.
In his executive capacity, West garnered two Executive of the Year awards, in 1995 and again in 2004 with the Grizzlies. His strategic maneuvering played a pivotal role in constructing the Laker dynasties, resulting in six championship victories (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988, 2000), thanks in large part to his decisions like selecting Kobe Bryant and acquiring Shaquille O’Neal.
Furthermore, West’s astute management with the Golden State Warriors laid the foundation for them to claim three titles in four years (2015, 2017, 2018). His illustrious career drew to a close with his consultancy role with the Los Angeles Clippers over the past seven years.
The legacy of Jerry West transcends his on-court brilliance and strategic executive choices; his image etched in the NBA logo immortalizes his extensive contributions to the realm of basketball.
