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, nicknamed "the Logo" due to his silhouette inspiring the NBA logo, was a celebrated American basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers and later a successful NBA executive. Known as "Mr. Clutch" for his game-winning shots, including a memorable 60-footer in the 1970 NBA Finals, West is considered one of basketball's all-time greats. He also earned the moniker "Mr. Outside" for his perimeter play and "Zeke from Cabin Creek" referencing his West Virginia roots.

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 to a period of introversion for West.

1962: NBA Finals Loss to Celtics

In 1962, Jerry West and the Lakers reached the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics, ultimately losing in a close game 7.

1963: NBA Finals Loss

In 1963, the Lakers, with Jerry West, reached the NBA Finals but were defeated by the Celtics in six games.

1964: Playoff Loss to the Hawks

In 1964, after struggling during the regular season, the Lakers were beaten by the Hawks in the first round of the NBA playoffs.

1965: West Leads Lakers in Playoffs and NBA Finals

In 1965, with Baylor injured, West led the Lakers to victory over the Bullets in the playoffs with exceptional performances, including averaging 46.3 points per game, an NBA record. He then led the Lakers to the NBA Finals, where they lost to the Celtics 4-1, despite West's high scoring average of 40.6 points per game in the playoffs.

1966: West's Season Affected by Injury

During the 1966 NBA season, Jerry West played only 66 regular season games due to injury, which slightly reduced his averages to 28 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game.

1966: Lakers Lose NBA Finals to Celtics

In 1966, the Lakers, despite West's strong performance, lost to the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. In the final game, West and Baylor struggled with their shooting, leading to a narrow loss for the Lakers.

1967: Lakers Disappoint in Playoffs

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

1968: Lakers Lose to Celtics in NBA Finals

In the 1968 NBA playoffs, the Lakers faced the Celtics in the NBA Finals. Despite West's efforts, including scoring 38 points in a game 4 win and playing injured in game 5 where he scored 35 points, the Lakers lost the series.

1969: West Leads Lakers to Finals

In 1969, Jerry West led the Lakers to the NBA Finals, facing the Boston Celtics. Despite scoring 53 points in game 1, a hamstring injury hampered his performance later in the series, contributing to their loss.

1969: West Wins Finals MVP Despite Loss

In 1969, despite Jerry West's outstanding performance, including a triple-double in game 7, the Lakers lost to the Celtics in the NBA Finals. West became the only player to win the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award from the losing team.

1971: West Injured, Lakers Lose in Playoffs

In 1971, after Elgin Baylor's career-ending injury, Jerry West suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for the season. Consequently, the Lakers, short-handed, lost the Western Conference finals to the Milwaukee Bucks.

1973: 1973 NBA Finals Appearance

In the 1973 NBA Finals against the New York Knicks, the Lakers, with West playing through hamstring strains, lost the series despite Chamberlain's efforts.

1973: Final NBA Season and Groin Injury

In the 1973-74 NBA season, West played his final year as a player, averaging 20.3 points per game. Despite a strained groin muscle that limited him to 31 games, he earned his final All-Star Game selection.

December 17, 2020: NBA Investigation

On December 17, 2020, Jerry West and the Los Angeles Clippers were under investigation by the NBA, following a lawsuit regarding the recruitment of Kawhi Leonard.