Jerry West dies at 86: NBA all-time Hall of Famer remembered as 'personification of basketball excellence'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Jerry West, the iconic Los Angeles Lakers star, died at age 86.

The winner of the NBA championship in 1972, was the man behind bringing Kobe Bryant to Los Angeles.

West’s death was confirmed by the Los Angeles Clippers team, where he was serving as an executive board member.

“The personification of basketball excellence and a friend to all who knew him,” is how they described the legend, per KTLA.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver remembers Jerry West's legacy

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also released a statement on West’s passing early Tuesday morning, June 11.

“Jerry West was a basketball genius and a defining figure in our league for more than 60 years. He distinguished himself not only as an NBA champion and an All-Star in all 14 of his playing seasons, but was also a consummate competitor who embraced the biggest moments…” it read.

“I valued my friendship with Jerry and the knowledge he shared with me over many years of basketball and life,” said Silver.

What did LA Clippers owner Steve Ballmer say about Jerry West's passing away?

Clippers owner Steve Ballmer said, “This is a hard day…I am honored to call Jerry a confidant, an advisor and a friend.”

“Connie, my wife, called him my ‘basketball dad’ [and] he was absolutely my basketball sage: wise, loyal and so much fun. If you were in his presence, you felt his competitiveness and his drive…,” he continued.

“From the first day I met Jerry seven years ago, he inspired me with his intellect, honesty and enthusiasm. He never stopped. I spent a lot of time with him, some of the best times of my life. He always lent an ear, he always had a quip and he always left me laughing. I will miss him,” he added.

In 1969, West became the first and only player in history to be named NBA Finals MVP, despite ending on the losing side while playing with the Boston Celtics in seven games.

West was also called ‘The Logo’ because the NBA's logo was unofficially based on him.

Internet mourns the death of Jerry West

Netizens lamented West's demise.

One person wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "He will be remembered as one of the greatest figures in the history of the sport. Rest in peace!!" 

"Wtf another legend 😢 Rest in paradise to the logo," another said.

A fan shared, "Rip to one of the 🐐’s. Sad day for basketball fans! Fly high logo🙏🏻🕊️."

"A genius at so many levels. RIP logo. You’ll be missed but more importantly you’ll be forever remembered," another remarked. 

One penned, "Thought this was Lebrons resume at first! Jerry is a legend, definitely top 20 all time."

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