Following the passing of basketball Hall of Famer Jerry West on Wednesday, the NBA and the sports community responded. According to a statement from the Los Angeles Clippers, he passed away Wednesday morning at the age of 86 with his wife Karen at his side. West has been employed as a consultant by the Clippers.
“For more than 60 years, Jerry West was a basketball genius and a pivotal figure in our league. In addition to becoming an NBA champion and an All-Star every each of his 14 seasons as a player, he stood out for being a perfect competitor who relished the big occasions. Being the first MVP of the league for the Finals, he made it his trademark to rise to the moment, gaining the moniker “Mr. Clutch.” – Adam Silver, the NBA commissioner.
“My dear friend, I will sincerely miss our conversations! I’m praying and thinking of your beautiful family! Jerry, I will always love you! My buddy, rest in paradise! – LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers on X.