The NBA has lost an all-time great player and influential figure. Jerry West, the legendary guard whose silhouette became the iconic league logo, passed away on Wednesday morning at age 86.
West’s death was announced by the Los Angeles Clippers, one of the franchises he helped build as an executive later in his career. He was at his wife Karen’s side when he died, though no further details were provided.
Though he spent his entire 14-year playing career with the Lakers, West’s impact on the game transcended just one franchise.
He was among the NBA’s first true superstars, making the All-Star team every season while averaging over 27 points per game.
Despite his individual brilliance, an NBA championship eluded West until 1972 in his final season. But his legacy was already cemented by then, so much so that the league modeled its iconic logo after his picture just a few years earlier in 1969.
West seamlessly transitioned to life after his playing days.
He coached the Lakers for three seasons from 1976-79 before turning to management.
As Lakers GM, he ushered in the beloved “Showtime” era, trading for Kobe Bryant’s draft rights in 1996 among his many savvy moves.
The Hall of Famer’s influence also extended to other franchises like the Grizzlies, Warriors and finally the Clippers, where he served as an executive board member. In 2011, the Lakers immortalized West with a statue outside Crypto.com Arena.
Throughout his decades in basketball, West earned a reputation as an intensely competitive teammate, coach and executive. But he was deeply respected by all for his contributions in shaping the modern NBA into the global juggernaut it is today.
As the man behind the logo takes his final bow, the league is remembering one of its true giants and innovators both on and off the court. Jerry West leaves behind an unparalleled legacy as a player, champion and basketball visionary.