What was Jerry West impact on the NBA? Everything you should know about the NBA icon

The basketball community is mourning the passing of renowned player and Basketball Hall of Fame member Jerry West. He was 86 years old when he died away, according to the Los Angeles Clippers.

The remarkable NBA career of Jerry West left a lasting impression on the sport. He showed off his ability to score points by being the third player to reach 25,000 points. His skills enabled the Los Angeles Lakers to go nine times to the NBA Finals, including a title in 1971–1972. West became an advisor with the Clippers in 2017 and had a significant part in the team's 2021 Western Conference finals campaign. 

Take a look at Jerry West's life in the NBA

Jerry West NBA Career:

Jerry West, who spent his whole 14-year professional career with the Los Angeles Lakers, was regarded as a real leader. He was the third player in history to reach 25,000 points, after Wilt Chamberlain and Oscar Robertson. West, nicknamed 'Mr. Clutch' for his tendency to shine late in games, was an All-Star every year of his career. His leadership was important in the Lakers' nine NBA Finals appearances, ending in a championship victory in 1971-72. Aside from the NBA, West won a gold medal at the 1960 Summer Olympics, solidifying his legacy as a basketball great. 

Jerry West's career stats:

Jerry West won several individual distinctions throughout his 14-year NBA career. Between 1961 and 1974, he averaged 27 points and 6.7 assists in 932 games for the Lakers, totalling 25,192 points. His outstanding abilities were acknowledged with 14 NBA All-Star selections and ten All-NBA First Team honours. West's defensive abilities were also obvious, earning him four NBA All-Defensive First-Team selections. His effect on the game was further cemented with the 1969 NBA Finals MVP and the 1972 NBA Championship. 

The story behind the NBA Logo:

Jerry West is known for his clutch plays, earning him the nicknames "Mr. Clutch" and "The Logo." His buzzer-beater against the New York Knicks in the 1970 NBA Finals was recognized as one of the greatest plays ever. In the end, the Knicks won the championship. Though it was not confirmed by the NBA many NBA Fans thought that the cut-out of the player is Jerry West. While NBA Commissioner Adam Silver stated, "It sure looks a lot like him."

Jerry West's personal life:

Jerry West married Martha Jane Kane, his undergraduate love, in 1960 in Morgantown, West Virginia. Before their divorce in 1976, they had three boys together. West and his second wife, Karen Bua, had two kids after marrying in 1978. One of their boys followed in his father's footsteps by attending West Virginia University and playing basketball. Karen West was by his side when he died at the age of 86.

Jerry West's life as General Manager:

Jerry West played a key in Los Angeles Lakers' success when he was general manager of the team. He made a bold decision which led to building the Los Angeles Lakers' legacy. During his time he bought Kobe Bryant who was a trade move and Shaquille O’Neal to the Los Angeles Lakers which later became a great move in NBA history. Later he also worked for the Los Angeles Clippers, Memphis Grizzlies and Golden State Warriors.