Jerry West, a legendary NBA player and executive, passed away at the age of 86. Known for his iconic silhouette that became part of the NBA logo, West had successful stints as an executive with the Memphis Grizzlies, Golden State Warriors, and Los Angeles Clippers. He was inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame three times: as a player in 1980, as a member of the 1960 U.S. Olympic basketball team in 2010, and as a contributor in 2024. The Clippers announced West’s death on Wednesday, marking a significant loss for the basketball community.
Born in Chelyan, West Virginia, Jerry West had a standout career at East Bank High School before attending West Virginia University, where he led the Mountaineers to the NCAA championship in 1959. He then joined the NBA as a player for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he spent 14 years and won an NBA championship in 1972. Following his retirement in 1974, West transitioned into coaching and later became the team’s general manager, playing a key role in shaping the Lakers’ successful “Showtime” dynasty, which won five championships.
Jerry West’s impact on the NBA extended beyond his playing days, as he earned recognition as a 14-time All-Star, a 12-time All-NBA selection, and an NBA Finals MVP despite being on the losing team in 1969. He was also named to the NBA’s 75th anniversary team, solidifying his status as one of the league’s all-time greats. In 2019, President Donald Trump awarded West the Presidential Medal of Freedom, acknowledging his contributions to the sport and his lasting legacy as a basketball icon.
Nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for his late-game heroics on the court, Jerry West was also known as “Zeke from Cabin Creek,” a reference to the creek near his hometown. His impact on the game transcended playing and coaching, as his silhouette remains an enduring symbol of the NBA itself. West’s legacy as a player, coach, and executive will be remembered by basketball fans for generations to come. He is survived by his wife Karen and five sons, leaving behind a lasting impact on the sport that he dedicated his life to.
Jerry West’s career was characterized by excellence and success at every level, from his high school days to his time in the NBA as a player and executive. His contributions to the game were not only on the court but also in the front office, where he helped build championship-winning teams and shape the direction of multiple franchises. West’s influence on the sport extended far beyond his playing days, as his impact on the game will be felt for years to come. The basketball world mourns the loss of a true icon with the passing of Jerry West.
