Al Attles, a name synonymous with the Golden State Warriors, embarked on his basketball journey as a player and later transitioned into a coaching role that would define his career. Born on November 7, 1936, in Newark, New Jersey, Attles attended Weequahic High School before moving on to North Carolina A&T State University. At college, he honed his skills on the court, eventually catching the attention of professional scouts.

In 1960, Attles was drafted by the Philadelphia Warriors in the fifth round of the NBA Draft. Standing at 6 feet 0 inches, he played as a guard, known for his defensive tenacity and team-oriented play. Attles quickly became an integral part of the Warriors' roster, contributing both offensively and defensively. His playing style was characterized by a strong work ethic and an unyielding defensive presence, earning him the nickname "The Destroyer."

During his playing career, Attles was part of the Warriors' transition from Philadelphia to San Francisco in 1962. He played alongside legendary figures such as Wilt Chamberlain, and together they formed a formidable team. One of the highlights of Attles' playing career came in 1964 when the Warriors reached the NBA Finals, although they were ultimately defeated by the Boston Celtics.

In 1970, Attles took on the dual role of player and coach for the Warriors. This transition marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career. As a coach, Attles emphasized teamwork and defense, principles that he had embodied as a player. His leadership from the sidelines was instrumental in guiding the Warriors to their first NBA Championship in 1975. Under his guidance, the team executed a remarkable playoff run, culminating in a four-game sweep of the Washington Bullets in the Finals.

Attles' coaching career with the Warriors spanned over a decade, during which he became one of the longest-tenured coaches in the league. His ability to connect with players and foster a cohesive team environment was widely recognized. Even after stepping down as head coach in 1983, Attles remained with the Warriors organization in various capacities, including as an executive.

Throughout his career, Attles was respected not only for his basketball acumen but also for his integrity and leadership off the court.

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