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American basketball player and executive (1938-2024).
Born May 28th, 1938 in Chelyan. [ref]
Died June 12th, 2024 at 86 years old in Los Angeles. [ref]
Jerry West, a highly regarded and accomplished basketball player, passed away on June 12, 2024 at the age of 86. He was born on May 28, 1938 in Chelyan, West Virginia, to parents Howard and Cecil West. West had a very successful career in the National Basketball Association (NBA), playing for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1960 to 1974. He was a 14-time NBA All-Star and was named the All-Star Game MVP in 1972. He also led the Lakers to the NBA Finals nine times, where he was named the Finals MVP in 1969 despite losing the series. West was consistently one of the top scorers in the league, earning the title of the NBA scoring champion in 1970. In addition to his impressive individual accomplishments, he also helped the Lakers win their first NBA championship in 1972. After retiring from playing, West moved on to a successful career as a coach and executive. He served as the Lakers' head coach from 1976 to 1979, and later became the general manager and executive vice president of the team. During his time as an executive, the Lakers won six NBA championships. West's impact on the game of basketball extended beyond his playing and coaching career. He is credited with designing the silhouette of the NBA logo, which has become synonymous with the sport. West will be remembered as a talented and influential figure in the world of basketball. His contributions to the game have left a lasting legacy and he will be greatly missed by the basketball community. He is survived by his wife, Karen, and his three children, David, Kimberly, and Mark. Rest in peace, Jerry West. Your passion, skill, and dedication to the game will never be forgotten.
Give me liberty or give me death. Patrick Henry