Magic Johnson, LeBron James, Michael Jordan and more react to death of Jerry West: ‘He was the silhouette for a reason’

On Wednesday morning, the Los Angeles Clippers announced the death of basketball legend Jerry West.

Jerry West, the personification of basketball excellence and a friend to all who knew him, passed away peacefully this morning at the age of 86. His wife, Karen, was by his side. pic.twitter.com/iMwOXmCT2B

— LA Clippers (@LAClippers) June 12, 2024

Throughout the day, the basketball world took time to pay their respects to the late guard, a 14-time All-Star and championship executive whose silhouette became the inspiration for the NBA’s iconic logo.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver released a statement Wednesday morning, sharing his condolences to the basketball great and noting his excellence as a executive as well as player.

“Jerry’s four decades with the Lakers also included a successful stint as a head coach and a remarkable run in the front office that cemented his reputation as one of the greatest executives in sports history. He helped build eight championship teams during his tenure in the NBA – a legacy of achievement that mirrors his on-court excellence,” Silver said in the statement. “I valued my friendship with Jerry and the knowledge he shared with me over many years about basketball and life.”

The Clippers released a statement on behalf of owner Steve Ballmer, who praised his friend and colleague. West had been a member of the Clippers’ executive board since 2017.

“This is a hard day,” Ballmer wrote, speaking personally about his relationship with West. “From the first day I met Jerry seven years ago, he inspired me with his intellect, honesty and enthusiasm. He never stopped.”

Earvin “Magic” Johnson, whose career with the Lakers took place under West’s leadership as general manager, posted a lengthy tribute to his colleague and friend, sharing personal anecdotes about West. Johnson and West won five championships with Los Angeles during that span.

“Every time I achieved a goal or crossed a milestone, one of the first calls I received was from Jerry West. When I started my business, was inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame, was named Lakers President of Basketball Operations – he would always pick up…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/magic-johnson-lebron-james-michael-jordan-and-more-react-to-death-of-jerry-west-he-was-the-silhouette-for-a-reason-150414906.html

Author : Yahoo Sports

Publish date : 2024-06-12 15:04:14

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