Jerry West hailed as ‘basketball genius’ following death aged 86

Jerry West has been described as a “basketball genius” and a “defining figure” in the NBA following his death at the age of 86.

West, whose silhouette is considered the basis of the NBA logo and was nicknamed “Mr Clutch” for his late-game exploits on the court, spent over six decades in the game as player, coach and team executive.

He was most closely associated with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he spent 14 years as a player, three as coach and 21 as an executive during which time he helped build the team’s great “Showtime” dynasty of the 1980s.

Honoring the legendary Jerry West pic.twitter.com/vN9gzMPVMc

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) June 12, 2024

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement: “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.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Jerry West. pic.twitter.com/8XspFQO3d0

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) June 12, 2024

“He helped build eight championship teams during his tenure in the NBA – a legacy of achievement that mirrors his on-court excellence.”

The Lakers showed a picture of a smiling West on their social media with the words: “Honoring the legendary Jerry West.”