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Jerry West’s passing: Basketball world remembers NBA icon revered as ‘the Logo’

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

Jerry West, an NBA icon and the inspiration behind the league’s iconic logo, passed away early Wednesday morning. He was 86 years old at the time.

A native of West Virginia, West played for the Mountaineers in college before being selected by the then-Minneapolis Lakers. He would embark on a historic career, being named an All-Star every year of his career.

West’s accolades include the 1972 NBA title and being named the NBA Finals MVP during a losing effort against the Boston Celtics. He was the 1959 Final Four Most Outstanding Player, captured a gold medal in the 1960 Olympics, and was a 10-time All-NBA 1st Team recipient.

Once his playing days ended, West embarked on a head coaching career with the Los Angeles Lakers, going 145-101 overall from 1976-79. He would eventually leave coaching behind to become the GM of the Lakers, going on to oversee 8 NBA titles for the franchise.

West would win 2 NBA Executive of the Year honors and is best known for acquiring Kobe Bryant and teaming Bryant with big man Shaquille O’Neal.

Remembering Jerry West

Since the news of his passing broke, the basketball world has been remembering the legendary figure throughout Wednesday. Michael Jordan released a statement through Stephen A. Smith, calling West a friend and a mentor.

“I am so deeply saddened at the news of Jerry’s passing,” Jordan said in a statement read on “First Take.” “He was truly a friend and a 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… He will be forever missed. My condolences to his wife, Karen, and his sons. Rest in peace, Logo.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement, acknowledging West as one of the greatest executives in the history of sports. West was also praised for his contributions across more than 60 years of the NBA’s history.

ESPN also interrupted First Take with a fitting tribute to West:

Rest in peace to a legend and a true staple throughout the history of the NBA.

Paul Harvey

Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.

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