The passing of Hall of Fame player and executive Jerry West left a void in the basketball world, but his family has decided to honor his wishes by mourning his loss privately. In a statement released by the LA Clippers, his family announced that there will be no public memorial for the legendary figure. West, who was working as a consultant for the Clippers at the time of his death, passed away on June 12 at the age of 86.
Jerry West’s basketball journey began in the small town of Chelyan, West Virginia. He rose to prominence during his college years at West Virginia University, where he showcased his talent from 1957 to 1960. His skills on the court caught the attention of the NBA, and he was selected as the second overall pick in the draft by the Minneapolis Lakers. After the team relocated to Los Angeles, West went on to become a 14-time All-Star and clinched the NBA championship with the Lakers in 1972.
Despite his remarkable achievements in the basketball world, Jerry West’s heart always remained in West Virginia. His family has suggested honoring his memory through donations to various funds at West Virginia University. These funds include academic and basketball scholarships named after Jerry and his wife. The statement released by his widow, Karen, and his five sons highlights the deep connection West had with his home state and the importance of giving back to the community that shaped him.
Jerry West’s contributions to the game of basketball have been recognized on multiple occasions. He was selected to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame three times, underscoring the significance of his legacy both as a player and an executive. Notably, West’s silhouette is widely regarded as the inspiration behind the iconic NBA logo, symbolizing his enduring influence on the sport.
Jerry West’s passing marks the end of an era in basketball history, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike. The decision to mourn his loss privately reflects the personal nature of his family’s grief, while also emphasizing the enduring impact of his contributions to the game. As the basketball world pays tribute to a true icon, West’s memory will live on through the scholarships and funds that bear his name, ensuring that his legacy remains etched in the heart of the basketball community.
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