Los Angeles – The NBA and sports world reacted Wednesday to the death of basketball Hall of Famer Jerry West. West passed away Wednesday morning at age 86, surrounded by his wife Karen, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Clippers. West worked as a consultant for the Clippers.
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“Jerry West was a basketball genius and a league icon for more than six decades. Not only was he an NBA champion and All-Star in each of his 14 seasons, he also earned a reputation as a consummate competitor with a penchant for the biggest moments. He was the league's first Finals MVP and his situational rise to the occasion earned him the nickname 'Mr. Clutch.'” – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
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“Dear friend, I will truly miss our conversations! Heartfelt wishes to your amazing family! Eternal love from Jerry! Rest in peace!” – Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James told X.
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“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Jerry. He was a true friend, mentor and like a brother to me. His friendship and knowledge were invaluable to me. I always wished I could have played against him and the more I got to know him, the more I wish we had been teammates. I was impressed with his basketball acumen and we had so much in common with how we approached the game. He will be forever missed. My condolences to his wife Karen and sons. Rest in Peace Logo.” – Michael Jordan, former NBA great and current minority owner of the Charlotte Hornets.
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“Today is a tough day. I was honored to call Jerry my confidant, advisor and friend. My wife, Connie, called him my 'basketball father.' He was truly my basketball sage. Smart, loyal and so much fun. You could feel his competitive spirit and drive when you were around him. He cared about everything and everyone. From the day I first met Jerry seven years ago, his intellect, integrity and enthusiasm inspired me. He never stopped. I spent a lot of time with him. It was the best time of my life. He always listened and always had something witty to say. He always made me laugh. I will miss him.” – Clippers owner Steve Ballmer.
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“Jerry West was an incredibly unique individual who accomplished immeasurable things in the game of basketball. He reached the pinnacle of the sport both as a player and an executive and few in this profession have done more than a few. He made significant contributions to the NBA, the game of basketball and each of the teams he was involved with, including the Warriors, throughout his unparalleled career. Jerry had a profound and immeasurable impact on our franchise and was instrumental in our success over the last decade.” – Joe Lacob, Co-Chairman and CEO of the Golden State Warriors.
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“When we think of basketball, we think of Jerry West. From the coal mines of West Virginia to the biggest stage in sports, Jerry demonstrated mastery of the sport with grace and humility. He was a world-class athlete, a proud West Virginian, and a great friend. Rest in Peace, Jerry.” – Senator Joe Manchin (IW.Va), via X
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“The passing of Jerry West is a shock. LOGO impacted every aspect of our sport as a player, talent evaluator, GM and President of the Grizzlies. We spent time together there and learned much more about him in that time. Our long conversations over the years were basketball lessons to me. We mourn his sudden passing and send our prayers to his family.” – University of Arkansas coach John Calipari.
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“The Dodgers are mourning the passing of NBA Hall of Famer and Lakers legend Jerry West, who was an unforgettable part of Los Angeles sports for more than six decades. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.” – Los Angeles Dodgers.
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