Basketball fans around the world are mourning the passing of Jerry West. He was a true legend and member of the Basketball Hall of Fame. Per a statement posted by the  LA Clippers, he died at the age of 86.

“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.”

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

West played for the LA Lakers for his whole playing career. He was part of the 1972 champion team, was victorious as NBA Finals MVP and a 14-time All-Star player.

The legend played for 14 years professionally. He followed Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson to score 25,000 points. His nickname is ‘Mr. Clutch’ because of his ability to shine in critical game moments. He played in nine NBA Finals, exemplifying his consistent excellence and leadership on the court.

He stands with some of the all-time greats with an average of 27 points, 6.7 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game. The only retired players with better stats are Michael Jordan, Elgin Baylor and Wilt Chamberlain.

Outside of the NBA, West played on the 1960 USA summer Olympics squad, and received a gold medal.

After the 1973/74 season, West retired from playing and became Lakers head coach. His record was 145-101.

He became a scout in 1979, then a team general manager in 1982. He built the team up with popular players such as Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and James Worthy and Pat Riley. Later, he brought Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal to the team in 1996. This built up team won three titles.

West was an executive board member for the Golden State Warriors in 2011. The Warriors with Stephen Curry won their first championship in 2015. In 2017, he helped build up the LA Clippers.

President Trump awarded West with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019.

West will be remembered as perhaps the player who helped put the NBA on the map. His legacy on the basketball court and in the front office will be remembered forever. Moreover, his silhouette was the inspiration behind the NBA logo.

Rest In Peace