Sports world pays tribute to Hall of Famer Jerry West - ESPN

Basketball Hall of Famer Jerry West died Wednesday morning, the LA Clippers announced. He was 86 years old.

A 14-time All-Star and champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, West's silhouette is considered the basis for the NBA logo. He was the third player to reach 25,000 points in NBA history and has the most career points in the NBA Finals, according to ESPN Stats & Information. West reached the Finals nine times with the Lakers, winning in 1972. He was named NBA Finals MVP in 1969, even though Los Angeles lost to the Boston Celtics.

After his playing career, West found success as an NBA executive. He had a key role in the Showtime Lakers of the 1980s. West signed Shaquille O'Neal and orchestrated the Kobe Bryant trade in 1996, setting up a new dynasty in Los Angeles. He also worked in the front offices of the Memphis Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors, and took on an advisory position with the Clippers in 2017.

The sports world paid tribute to West on social media Wednesday.

Michael Jordan texted <a href=«https://twitter.com/stephenasmith?ref_src=» https:>@stephenasmith

to honor Jerry West.

«I am so deeply saddened at the news of Jerry's passing. He was truly a friend and a mentor. Like an older brother to me.… Rest in Peace, Logo.» pic.twitter.com/kvkXqqSf63

Will truly miss our convos my dear friend! My thoughts and prayers goes out to your wonderful family! Forever love Jerry! Rest in Paradise my guy!