Reaction to the death of Jerry West, ‘a basketball genius’

The NBA and the sports world reacted Wednesday to the death of basketball Hall of Famer Jerry West. He died on Wednesday morning at age 86 with his wife, Karen, by his side, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Clippers. West worked for the Clippers as a consultant.

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“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 All-Star in all 14 seasons he played, but also as a consummate competitor who embraced the biggest moments. He was the league’s first Finals MVP and made preparing for the occasion his signature quality, earning him the nickname ‘Mr. Clutch.'” – NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

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“I really missed our conversations, my dear friend! My thoughts and prayers go out to your wonderful family! Love Jerry forever! Rest in Paradise, my boy!” – LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers star in X.

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“I am deeply saddened by the news of Jerry’s passing. He was truly a friend and mentor – like a big brother to me. I valued his friendship and knowledge. I always wished I could have played against him as a competitor, but the more I got to know him, I wish I could have been his teammate. I admired his insights into basketball and he and I share many similarities in the way we approach the game. He will be missed forever! My condolences to his wife, Karen, and their children. RIP, logo.” – Michael Jordanformer NBA great and current minority owner of the Charlotte Hornets.

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“This is a difficult day. I am honored to call Jerry a confidant, advisor and friend. Connie, my wife, called him my ‘basketball dad.’ He was my absolute basketball savant: wise, loyal and so much fun. If you were in his presence, you would feel his competitiveness and his drive. He cared about everything and everyone. From the first day I met Jerry seven years ago, he inspired me with his intellect, honesty and enthusiasm. He never stopped. I spent a lot of time with him, some of the best times of my life. He always listened and always made jokes. He always left me laughing. I’m going to miss him.” – Clippers Owner Steve Ballmer.

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“He was intelligent, committed, stubborn, fearless, generous, ultra-competitive, stubborn, but with great grace. These were just some of the characteristics he embedded in my psyche. They came at just the right time, honed by many years of Jerry’s loudspeaker reminders. Jerry kicked down the coach’s door for me and said, ‘You can do this, but it has to be now.’ He knew, so he let me train. I am eternally grateful to you for giving me this opportunity.” — Pat Riley, president of the Miami Heat and former player and coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

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“Jerry West was an incredible and unique individual, having reached immeasurable heights in basketball. He reached the absolute pinnacle of the sport as a player and executive, something few in the profession can claim. He did so much for the NBA, the game of basketball and each of the teams he was associated with during his unparalleled career, including the Warriors. Jerry has had a profound and immense impact on our franchise and has been instrumental in our recent decade of success.” – Joe Lacob, Co-executive chairman and CEO of the Golden State Warriors.

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“When you think of basketball, you think of Jerry West. From the coal mines of WV to sports’ biggest stages, Jerry demonstrated his 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., in X.

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“Jerry West’s passing came as a shock. LOGO has impacted every aspect of our sport. As a player, talent evaluator, GM and president of the Grizzlies. We spent time together there and I learned more about him. Our long conversations over the years were basketball lessons for me. We mourn his sudden passing and send prayers to his family.” — University of Arkansas Coach. João Calipari.

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“May my first point guard ever rest in peace, knowing he paved the way to define greatness on the field, excellence in the front office and live life his way. Jerry is one of them and claims the right to be the logo forever. My condolences to his family.” – Julius Erving, member of the NBA Hall of Fame.

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“All I can say is that we have lost an absolute star in every sense. I’m telling you. This is a good man. A man who loved West Virginia beyond common sense. A man who has told me so many times that the people of West Virginia, what makes us who we are, is that we are real. He absolutely loved all of us.” —West Virginia Governor Jim Justice, who often joined West on hunting and fishing trips.

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“The Dodgers mourn the passing of NBA Hall of Famer and Lakers legend Jerry West, an indelible figure on the Los Angeles sports scene for more than 60 years. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends.” – the Los Angeles Dodgers.