Challenges Faced by Jerry West: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 11, 2026

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Jerry West. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Jerry West, nicknamed "the Logo," "Mr. Clutch," "Mr. Outside," and "Zeke from Cabin Creek," was an American basketball player and executive. He is considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time, playing his entire professional career with the Los Angeles Lakers. "The Logo" nickname is derived from his silhouette being the basis for the NBA logo. West was known for his clutch performances, highlighted by his buzzer-beating 60-foot shot in the 1970 NBA Finals.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1951: Death of Brother David

In 1951, Jerry West's older brother, David, was killed in action in the Korean War, which deeply affected Jerry and turned him into a shy and introverted boy.

1964: Playoff Loss to the Hawks

In 1964, The Lakers struggled during the entire season, winning only 42 games, and were beaten by the Hawks in five games during the first round of the 1964 NBA playoffs.

1965: Took over leading role due to Baylor's injury

In 1965, during the 1964-65 NBA playoffs, after Baylor's injury, West scored 49 points and willed the Lakers to win against the Baltimore Bullets. He averaged 46.3 points per game, an NBA record.

1966: Played only 66 games due to injury

In 1966, during the 1966–67 NBA season, Jerry West played only 66 regular season games due to injury.

1966: NBA Finals Loss

In 1966, the Lakers lost in a close seven-game series against the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals.

1967: Swept in the first round of the NBA playoffs

In 1967, during the 1966–67 NBA season, the Lakers had a disappointing season, winning only 36 games and getting swept by the San Francisco Warriors in the first round of the 1967 NBA playoffs.

1968: NBA Finals Loss to Celtics

In 1968, the Lakers lost another NBA Finals series to the Boston Celtics. Jerry West sprained his ankle during the series.

1969: NBA Finals Against the Knicks

In 1969, during the 1969-70 NBA season, the Lakers ultimately lost to the rugged New York Knicks in the NBA Finals.

1971: Considered Retirement

Before the 1971–72 NBA season, Jerry West was smarting from his frequent injuries and losses and considered retirement.

1971: Injured Knee and lost in Western Conference Finals

In 1971, during the 1970–71 NBA season, Jerry West injured his knee and was out for the season; the short-handed Lakers lost the Western Conference finals in five games to the championship-bound Milwaukee Bucks.

1973: NBA Finals Loss and Hamstring Injuries

In 1973, the Lakers, despite winning 60 games and reaching the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks, lost the series. During the series, Jerry West strained both of his hamstrings, impacting his performance.

1973: Final Season and Contractual Frustration

The 1973 season marked Jerry West's last as a player, during which he averaged 20.3 points per game. Despite being selected for the All-Star Game, he faced contractual frustration with Jack Kent Cooke, leading to his retirement and a lawsuit for unpaid back wages.

2011: Release of Memoir "West by West"

In 2011, Jerry West and Jonathan Coleman released a memoir entitled "West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life", which became a New York Times bestseller. In an interview related to the book, West revealed childhood physical abuse and ongoing depression.