Challenges Faced by Jerry West: Obstacles and Turning Points

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

Jerry West was an iconic American basketball player and executive, primarily known for his remarkable career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Revered as one of basketball's all-time greats, West earned nicknames like "the Logo" due to his silhouette inspiring the NBA logo, and "Mr. Clutch" for his exceptional performance in critical moments, exemplified by his legendary 60-foot buzzer-beater in the 1970 NBA Finals. He was also called "Mr. Outside" for his perimeter skills and "Zeke from Cabin Creek" referencing his West Virginia roots. He left an indelible mark on the sport.

Sections (6)

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

1951: Brother's Death in Korean War

In 1951, Jerry West's older brother, David, was killed in action in the Korean War, leading Jerry to become shy and introverted.

1961: Baylor Called to U.S. Army Reserves

During the 1961-62 NBA season, Elgin Baylor was called up by the U.S. Army Reserves and could play only 48 games.

1962: NBA Finals Against the Celtics

In 1962, the Lakers reached the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics, marking the beginning of a significant rivalry, but the Celtics won the series.

1964: Loss to Hawks in Playoffs

In 1964, the Lakers struggled and were beaten by the Hawks in five games during the first round of the NBA Playoffs.

1965: NBA Finals Loss to the Celtics

In 1965, the Celtics defeated the Lakers 4-1 in the NBA finals.

1966: Injury and Reduced Stats

In 1966, Jerry West played only 66 regular-season games due to injury, leading to slightly reduced averages of 28 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game.

1966: NBA Finals Loss to Celtics

In 1966, the Lakers lost to the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals after a close seven-game series, with West's scoring being countered by John Havlicek.

1967: Playoff Sweep and Coaching Change

In 1967, the Lakers had a disappointing season, winning only 36 games and being swept by the San Francisco Warriors in the first round of the NBA Playoffs; veteran coach Fred Schaus retired.

July 9, 1968: Trade for Wilt Chamberlain

On July 9, 1968, the Lakers traded Archie Clark, Darrall Imhoff, and Jerry Chambers for Wilt Chamberlain, leading to locker room tension and affecting West's play.

1968: NBA Finals Loss to Celtics

In 1968, the Lakers lost again to the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals despite strong performances from West who sprained his ankle during the series.

1969: Complains of exhaustion

In 1969, before Game 1, West complained privately to Bill Russell of exhaustion, but then scored 53 points.

1969: NBA Finals MVP Despite Loss

In 1969, despite a triple-double in Game 7, Jerry West and the Lakers lost to the Celtics in the NBA Finals; West became the only player to win the NBA Finals MVP award from the losing team.

1970: NBA Finals Loss to Knicks and Historic Shot

In 1970, Jerry West led the NBA in scoring, but the Lakers lost to the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals despite West's incredible 60-foot shot in Game 3 to tie the game.

1971: Considering Retirement and Coaching Change

In 1971, Jerry West considered retirement due to frequent injuries and losses; Bill Sharman was hired as head coach.

1971: Injury and Playoff Loss

In 1971, Jerry West injured his knee and was out for the season after Elgin Baylor's achilles tendon rupture; the short-handed Lakers lost the Western Conference Finals to the Milwaukee Bucks.