Crystal Pouncey
Jun 15, 2024 - 02:25

West Virginia Basketball: Remembering Life of Jerry West, Forever Mountaineer

Basketball legend Jerry West, known for the NBA logo, passes away at 86. His impact on basketball will be remembered.

On February 2, 2019, in Morgantown, WV, the basketball world lost a true legend as Jerry West, former West Virginia Mountaineers player, passed away at the age of 86. Known for his iconic silhouette that is depicted in the NBA logo, West had a lasting impact on the game of basketball that will never be forgotten.

West began his basketball journey with the Mountaineers in 1957, where he showcased his talent and skill on the court. Over the course of three seasons, West proved himself to be a force to be reckoned with, averaging impressive point totals each year. He remains the University's all-time leading scorer with 2,309 points and was inducted into the West Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 1991.

As a 2-time consensus All-American, West led the Mountaineers to the 1959 NCAA Championship game, where they narrowly fell short to the California Golden Bears. Despite this loss, West's talent did not go unnoticed, and he was selected as the #2 pick in the 1960 NBA Draft by the Lakers, beginning a successful 14-year playing career in the NBA.

Throughout his time with the Los Angeles Lakers, West continued to shine, averaging an impressive 27 points per game and earning numerous accolades, including being selected to an All-NBA team 12 times and an all-defensive team 5 times. He made history by becoming the third player to score 25,000 points, alongside legends like Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson.

After retiring from playing, West transitioned into coaching and management roles with the Lakers, where he played a pivotal role in building the Lakers dynasty. He helped lead the team to 5 NBA Titles between 1982 and 2000, making key moves such as acquiring Shaquille O'Neal and drafting Kobe Bryant. West's influence extended beyond the Lakers, as he also worked in the front offices of the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors, and the Los Angeles Clippers.

Jerry West's legacy in the world of basketball is undeniable, and his impact will be felt for generations to come. His contributions to the game, both on and off the court, have left an indelible mark on the sport and inspired countless players and fans alike. Jerry West will always be remembered as a true basketball icon and a legend in every sense of the word.