Jerry West
Jerry West
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Jerome Alan "Jerry" West is widely known as "Mr. Clutch." He was born on May 28, 1938.
#### Birth and Death Dates
May 28, 1938 - still active
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
American Basketball Player, Coach, Executive
#### Early Life and Background
Born in Chelyan, West Virginia, to Herman and Pauline West, Jerry was the youngest of four children. His father worked as a coal miner, and the family struggled financially. Despite these challenges, West's love for basketball began at an early age. He played his high school ball at East Bank High School in Beckley, where he led his team to three consecutive state championships.
#### Major Accomplishments
West attended West Virginia University on a full scholarship, setting multiple records throughout his college career. In 1959, the Minneapolis Lakers selected him second overall in the NBA draft. During his 14-year playing career, West was named an NBA All-Star 12 times and led the league in scoring five times. He was also named to nine consecutive All-NBA teams from 1961 to 1969.
As a player, West's most notable achievement came when he scored 60 points against the Chicago Packers on March 29, 1963. This performance remains one of the highest-scoring games in NBA history. In addition to his individual accolades, West led the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships and was named NBA Finals MVP three times.
#### Notable Works or Actions
West's impact extends beyond his playing career. He served as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers from 1976 to 1979 and later became their general manager in 1982. During his tenure, the team won multiple championships and West played a significant role in shaping the franchise.
#### Impact and Legacy
Jerry West is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history. His on-court accomplishments are only matched by his influence off the court. He was named to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980 and had his jersey number retired by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996.
#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jerry West's quotes often reflect his competitive drive and commitment to excellence. His most famous quote, "I'd rather die than be a second-best," encapsulates his relentless pursuit of greatness. This attitude not only defined his playing career but has also inspired generations of athletes and business leaders.
West's legacy extends beyond the world of sports. He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, and philanthropist who remains actively involved in various charitable endeavors. His commitment to giving back to his community serves as a testament to his enduring impact both on and off the court.
Quotes by Jerry West
Jerry West's insights on:
Obviously, stats are important tools, but I think there's something behind those things; somewhere along the way, you've got to try to look inside someone.
There's always two or three players I like, and why I like them, I can't tell you. There's just something about them I think would be great on a team.
I went a few times, but I felt there was no way that any therapist could understand my particular torment and also felt in some respects they were sicker than I was.
I've always been really nationalistic, and I had a brother killed in Korea. And I think the 'Star Spangled Banner,' even today - and I've heard it a heckuva lot of times, OK - has always been a significant feeling to me.
I'd go fishing and always pretend I would catch the biggest fish. I'd stay out there for hours after everybody else left until I caught something. When I shot baskets, I was always the coach and star player and always made the winning shot.
I know when I left the game, I could have played more. There is no question. I think I could have played at a very high level, too. But I could not play the way everyone wanted me to play. And I was not willing to compromise what I felt was a standard that I had established in this league and, particularly, for our fans at home.
Some guys lay their fannies out there every night - they play the game at such a high level, and they give so much that, frankly, they don't get credit for it. And I think it's tragic sometimes.
Everyone always says you have to be on the best team, the team that wins. Oh, no, no, no. I disagree with that.
I'm at the point where you look back on your life and reflect. I've always been an unbelievable critic of me. If we lost a game, I blamed myself every night. I'm very proud of some of the things I did as an athlete, as an executive.