Former Los Angeles Lakers player Jerry West, famously known as “Mr. Clutch,” passed away at 86. The Los Angeles Clippers, where West served as an executive board member, confirmed his death.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver issued a heartfelt statement on Thursday in honor of the legend’s passing.
“Jerry West was a basketball genius and a defining figure in our league for more than 60 years. He distinguished himself not only as an NBA champion and an All-Star in all 14 of his playing seasons, but also as a consummate competitor who embraced the biggest moments. He was the league’s first Finals MVP and made rising to the occasion his signature quality, earning him the nickname ‘Mr. Clutch’,” Silver’s statement read.
West’s contributions to basketball extended far beyond his playing days. After retiring as a player, he became a highly respected executive. He has worked as a consultant for the Clippers since 2017.
Before his tenure with the Clippers, West, who once garnered attention with his frustration over the media, spent several years with the Memphis Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors. In 2011, West joined the Warriors’ front office, where his expertise contributed to guiding the team to NBA titles in 2015 and 2017.
Jerry West Playing Career Highlight
Jerry West spent his entire NBA playing career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Over his 14-year career, West helped the Lakers to nine Finals appearances and won the 1972 NBA championship.
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The former Lakers player made history by becoming the first and only player to be named NBA Finals MVP despite being on the losing team in 1969.
West scored over 25,000 points during his career, making him the third player in league history to reach this milestone. He played a vital role in bringing Kobe Bryant to the team in 1996.
In recognition of his outstanding career and contributions to basketball, West was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a player in 1980. His achievements were further honored when he was inducted again in 2010 as a 1960 U.S. Olympic Team member.
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