Basketball legend Jerry West, who had massive career success as a player for the Los Angeles Lakers and then as an executive, has died at the age of 86, the LA Clippers announced Wednesday.
The three-time Hall of Famer had been a consultant for the team since 2017.
Adam Silver, NBA commissioner released a statement after West's death:
"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 also as a consummate competitor who embraced the biggest moments. He was the league's first Finals MVP and made rising to the occasion his signature quality, earning him the nickname 'Mr. Clutch'.
"Jerry's four decades with the Lakers also included a successful stint as a head coach and a remarkable run in the front office that cemented his reputation as one of the greatest executives in sports history. He helped build eight championship teams during his tenure in the NBA - a legacy of achievement that mirrors his on-court excellence. And he will be enshrined this October into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor, becoming the first person ever inducted as both a player and a contributor," Silver continued.
West's impact on the league was so great, that his silhouette still serves as the infamous NBA logo.
You can watch some of his greatest moments below.
