The NBA and sports world reacted Wednesday to the death of basketball Hall of Famer Jerry West. He died Wednesday morning at age 86 with his wife, Karen, by his side, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Clippers. West had been working for the Clippers as a consultant.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver:
“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.’”
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James on X:
“Will truly miss our convos my dear friend! My thoughts and prayers goes out to your wonderful family! Forever love Jerry! Rest in Paradise my guy!”
The Golden State Warriors, where West won two more championships as an administrator, paid tribute to him at their Chase Center home court.Credit: AP
Michael Jordan, NBA legend and current Charlotte Hornets minority owner:
“I am so deeply saddened at the news of Jerry’s passing. He was truly a friend and mentor — like an older brother to me. I valued his friendship and knowledge. I always wished I could have played against him as a competitor, but the more I came to know him, I wish I had been his teammate. I admired his basketball insights and he and I shared many similarities to how we approached the game. He will be forever missed! My condolences to his wife, Karen, and his sons. RIP, Logo.”
Los Angeles Lakers’ Jerry West (44) drives around Milwaukee Bucks’ Oscar Robertson and Curtis Perry during the NBA playoffs in Milwaukee, April 14, 1972.Credit: AP
LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer:
“This is a hard day. I am honored to call Jerry a confidant, an advisor and a friend. Connie, my wife, called him my ‘basketball dad.’ He was absolutely my basketball sage: wise, loyal and so much fun. If you were in his presence, you felt his competitiveness and his drive. He cared about everything and everyone. From the first day I met Jerry seven years ago, he inspired me with his intellect, honesty and enthusiasm. He never stopped. I spent a lot of time with him, some of the best times of my life. He always lent an ear, and he always had a quip. He always left me laughing. I will miss him.”
Pat Riley, Miami Heat president and former Los Angeles Lakers player and coach:
”He was smart, committed, opinionated, fearless, generous, ultra-competitive, stubborn, but with great grace. These were just some of the characteristics he embedded in my psyche. They emerged at the right time, honed by many years of self-talking Jerry reminders. Jerry kicked down that coaching door for me and said, ‘You can do this, but it has to be now.’ He knew, then he let me coach. I thank him forever and always for giving me that opportunity.”
AP