NBA legend Jerry West passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 86. Lebron James had a special message for a ‘close friend’
The basketball world is mourning the loss of NBA legend Jerry West, who passed away on Wednesday morning at the age of 86. Known for his 14-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, West was not just a player but the very symbol of the NBA, as his silhouette graces the league’s logo. His death has left a significant void in the hearts of many.
LeBron James shared a heartfelt message on Twitter following the news: “Will truly miss our convos my dear friend! My thoughts and prayers go out to your wonderful family! Forever love Jerry! Rest in Paradise my guy!” His sentiments echo the feelings of many in the NBA community.
A Legendary Career
Jerry West’s career is one of the most illustrious in basketball history. Spending his entire playing career with the Lakers, West was a consistent performer, never averaging below 17 points per game. His rookie year saw him averaging 17.6 points per game, and he made the All-Star game every season of his career.
After hanging up his sneakers, West transitioned into coaching, leading the Lakers for three seasons and guiding them to the postseason each time. His success didn’t stop there; he went on to have a remarkable career as an executive.
West’s executive career included stints with the Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, Golden State Warriors, and the Los Angeles Clippers. Over his time as an executive, he was instrumental in securing eight NBA championships.
Tributes from the NBA Community
LeBron James is not alone in his tributes. Mark Cuban also shared a photo of himself with West, highlighting the profound impact West had on the NBA community. Jerry West was revered not only for his skills on the court but also for his sharp mind and leadership off it.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of basketball players and fans. Jerry West was truly one of the best to ever do it, and his contributions to the game will never be forgotten.
