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", "Mr. Clutch", and "Zeke from Cabin Creek", was a celebrated American basketball player and executive. He played his entire professional career with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. West is considered one of basketball's all-time greats, known for his exceptional perimeter play, clutch performances, and the silhouette that inspired the NBA logo. His remarkable career included a famous 60-foot buzzer-beater in the 1970 NBA Finals.

Sections (6)

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

1965: West Leads Lakers to Finals

In 1965, after Baylor's injury, Jerry West led the Lakers through the playoffs, averaging 46.3 points per game, an NBA record. The Lakers reached the 1965 NBA Finals, but lost to the Celtics 4-1.

1966: West's Injury-Plagued Season

During the 1966-67 NBA season, Jerry West played only 66 regular season games due to injury, and his averages fell slightly.

1966: Finals Loss to Celtics

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

1967: Lakers Swept in Playoffs

In 1967, the Lakers had a disappointing season and were swept by the San Francisco Warriors in the first round of the NBA playoffs. Fred Schaus retired as coach.

July 9, 1968: Lakers Acquire Wilt Chamberlain

On July 9, 1968, the Lakers traded Archie Clark, Darrall Imhoff, and Jerry Chambers to the Philadelphia 76ers for Wilt Chamberlain, creating locker room tension and impacting West's play.

1968: Finals Loss to Celtics

In the 1968 NBA playoffs, the Lakers lost yet another NBA Finals to the Boston Celtics, with West injured during the series.

1969: West Complains of Exhaustion

Before game 1 of the 1969 NBA playoffs, Jerry West privately complained to Bill Russell of exhaustion.

1969: Finals MVP Despite Loss

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

1970: West Leads in Scoring

In the 1969-70 NBA season, Jerry West led the NBA in scoring average with 31.2 points per game after Chamberlain's injury. The Lakers reached the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks but lost.

1971: Considering Retirement

Before the 1971-72 NBA season, Jerry West considered retirement due to frequent injuries and losses.

1971: Injury and Playoff Loss

In 1971, Jerry West injured his knee and was out for the season after Elgin Baylor's injury. The Lakers lost the Western Conference finals to the Milwaukee Bucks.