Three-time NBA Hall of Famer Jerry West passed away on June 12 at the age of 86. The cause of death has not been disclosed yet.
‘Mr Clutch’ made a name for himself at the Los Angeles Clippers, leading them to nine NBA Finals appearances. In 1969, he became the first person in NBA history to win the Finals MVP despite being on the losing side. His 60-foot shot is still regarded as one of the best moments in NBA history made against the New York Knicks in the 1970 NBA Finals.
After retiring in 1974, West switched to an executive role, playing a pivotal part in Laker’s draft picks and trades. The Lakers won multiple championships during his tenure as general manager.
West then joined the Warriors in 2011 where he transformed the franchise with his trading ability. He notably recruited Kevin Durant as a free agent in 2016. Under his guidance, the Warriors won four NBA championships.
West is also known as the logo man of the NBA. However West doesn’t get any royalties from the famous logo as the league refused to acknowledge that West was the one represented.
Death of ‘Mr. Clutch’ Widely Mourned
Jerry West’s death comes a few weeks after the death of Bill Walton, another legend of basketball. Like Walton, West’s death has been deeply mourned by the NBA family.
LA Clippers announced his death on X. “The personification of basketball excellence and a friend to all who knew him,” they wrote
Lebron James was also among the first to share his feelings, Will truly miss our convos my dear friend! My thoughts and prayers goes out to your wonderful family! Forever love Jerry! Rest in Paradise my guy!” the NBA’s all-time scoring leader wrote . “My mentor, My friend! Hopefully I continue to make you proud!”
Miami Heat’s Managing General Partner said, “Jerry West is one of my favorite people that I had the honor to get to know in the NBA”
There was also a pre-game tribute for West in Game 3 of the NBA finals between the Celtics and Mavericks which the Celtics won 106-99.
Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
