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Jerry West, Iconic NBA Player and Logo Inspiration, Passes Away at 86

Jerry West, Iconic NBA Player and Logo Inspiration, Passes Away at 86

Jerry West, an iconic figure in basketball history and the inspiration for the NBA logo silhouette, has died at the age of 86. He was instrumental in defining the modern shooting guard role.

Jerry West, a legendary guard from the 1960s famed for shaping the NBA logo, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86, as reported by the Los Angeles Clippers.

Playing with the Lakers from 1960 to 1974, West clinched his sole NBA championship in 1972 and was co-captain of the U.S. basketball team that won gold at the 1960 Rome Olympics.

In his later career, West held executive roles with various NBA teams, including his latest stint with the Clippers.

Renowned for his speed, agility, and precise shooting, West earned the nickname "Mr. Clutch" for his reliable performance under pressure.

Despite the Lakers' loss to the Celtics in the 1969 NBA Finals, West received the MVP award, highlighting his remarkable skills.

West appeared in 14 NBA All-Star games and led the league in scoring in 1970. His jersey, number 44, was retired by the Lakers, and he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980.

In 1969, the NBA adopted its current logo, featuring a silhouette of West dribbling, based on a game-time photograph.

West's career stats are impressive, with an average of 27.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game.

West coached the Lakers from 1976 to 1979 and secured eight championships as an NBA executive – five with the Lakers during the 1980s "Showtime" era, and additional titles with the Lakers in 2000 and with Golden State in 2015 and 2017, before moving to the Clippers.

In 2022, West was honored as a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team at the 71st NBA All-Star Game in Cleveland, Ohio.

West is celebrated as a player who revolutionized the shooting guard position, shaping the role for future generations.

His playing style and exceptional outside shooting set a benchmark for shooting guards, inspiring NBA greats like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant.

Source: ALJAZEERA
Source: ALJAZEERA

ALJAZEERA MEDIA NETWORK

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