Remembering Jerry West, an instrumental architect of Warriors’ dynasty

Remembering Jerry West, an instrumental architect of Warriors’ dynasty originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

If you’re a citizen of Dub Nation, you can appreciate Jerry West for securing and retaining the gift of Klay Thompson and whispering profoundly persuasive words into the ear of Kevin Durant.

If you live in Lakers Nation, you can thank West for drafting James Worthy, presiding over the Showtime era and securing teenage Kobe Bryant and veteran Shaquille O’Neal in the seismic summer of 1996.

If you’re a basketball fan, you simply appreciate Jerry West for being Jerry West.

West passed away Wednesday at age 86, and there was not one wasted year. He had done enough impactful work to last three lifetimes, transitioning from legendary player to legendary executive. No one in the NBA’s 78-year history achieved that dual goal at a higher level. He is enshrined in the Naismith Hall of Fame as a professional player, as a member of a gold-medal-winning Olympic team and finally, this summer, as a contributor.

He owned eight championship rings and is the only player in NBA Finals history to be on the losing team and still be voted winner of the Finals MVP award.

West earned the privilege of having his silhouette chosen in 1969 as the NBA logo – and having it remain so through the careers of such legends as Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Michael Jordan.

Though West is best known for his 40-year affiliation with the Lakers, his six seasons in Golden State’s front office were no less glorious.

Upon completing their purchase of the Warriors in 2010, CEO Joe Lacob and co-owner Peter Guber vowed to build a championship culture that would lift the franchise from NBA afterthought to league elite. Luring West six months later was a clear indication that they were serious.

“I’m really pleased that we were able to add someone the caliber of Jerry West to our organization,” Guber said when West was introduced to Bay Area media. “He has earned great respect in all circles, including the entire entertainment field. And his business savvy will serve us well and prove invaluable.

“Overall, his career has been nothing…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/remembering-jerry-west-instrumental-architect-193322300.html

Author : NBC Sports BayArea

Publish date : 2024-06-12 19:39:29

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