NBA legend Jerry West passed away on June 12, 2024. While serving as a front office consultant for the LA Clippers at the time of his death, West had an incredible executive career following his legendary playing career.
By LA Clippers June 12, 2024: “Today, the world lost an icon and a national treasure, as beloved in the hollows of West Virginia as in the hills of Los Angeles and everywhere in between. The Clippers have lost a mentor, a confidant and a friend. We are both devastated and honored to have witnessed the final chapter of Jerry West’s legendary career.”
Jerry West, the epitome of basketball excellence and a friend to all who knew him, passed away peacefully this morning at the age of 86. His wife, Karen, was at his side. pic.twitter.com/iMwOXmCT2B
— Los Angeles Clippers (@LAClippers) June 12, 2024
“Until the end, he was a fierce competitor, a generous teammate and a lot of fun,” the team continued. “His passion for the game was unmatched. His wisdom, generosity and humor are forever ingrained in the fabric of the franchise. He gave his heart to everything and everyone he touched. Our deepest condolences go out to the West family and the entire basketball community, united under one logo.”
While he spent the last years of his life working for the Clippers, West spent all 14 seasons of his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he also served as a manager and head coach after his retirement. In honor of West, the Lakers announced Tuesday that they will wear a commemorative headband bearing the No. 44 next season.
The team will honor Jerry West with a commemorative No. 44 stripe on their jerseys this season 💜 pic.twitter.com/S8MZ3WN5DB
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) September 10, 2024
“The team will honor Jerry West with a commemorative No. 44 stripe on their jerseys this season,” the Lakers wrote on X.
West’s No. 44 jersey hangs in the rafters of Crypto.com Arena alongside other Lakers legends.
This is a wonderful gesture from the Lakers to honor one of the greatest figures in franchise history and one of the most iconic figures the sport has ever known.
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