Jerry West, the basketball legend whose silhouette inspired the iconic NBA logo, has died at age 86, the Los Angeles Clippers confirmed. West, renowned for his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, featured in nine NBA Finals, securing a title in 1972. Throughout his 14-year playing career, he was an NBA All-Star every season, exemplifying basketball excellence.
“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,” the Clippers announced. West was the third player in league history to score 25,000 points, retiring with 25,192. Known as “Mr. Clutch” for his late-game heroics, he also helped the USA team win gold at the 1960 Olympics in Rome.
After retiring as a player in 1974, West transitioned to coaching, leading the Lakers for three seasons. He later became an influential NBA executive, credited with building the Showtime Lakers of the 1980s, who won five titles in a decade. West’s executive career extended beyond the Lakers, with significant roles at the Memphis Grizzlies, Golden State Warriors, and Los Angeles Clippers.
