Early Life and Education of Jerry West: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Jerry West. A timeline of key moments.

Jerry West, nicknamed "the Logo" due to his silhouette inspiring the NBA logo, was a celebrated American basketball player and executive. Known as "Mr. Clutch" for his game-winning abilities, most notably his 60-foot shot in the 1970 NBA Finals, and "Mr. Outside" for his perimeter play, West spent his entire NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers. His legacy extends beyond his playing days, solidifying his status as one of basketball's all-time greats.

Sections (6)

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

May 28, 1938: Birth of Jerry West

On May 28, 1938, Jerry Alan West was born. He would later become a celebrated American basketball player and executive known as "the Logo".

Others born on this day/year

1951: Brother's Death in Korean War

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

1952: Attended East Bank High School

In 1952, Jerry West began attending East Bank High School in East Bank, West Virginia.

1953: Growth Spurt and Team Captain

During the summer of 1953, Jerry West grew to 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) and became the captain of the freshman team at East Bank High School.

1955: Attended Mountaineer Boys State

In 1955, Jerry West represented East Bank High School by attending the Mountaineer Boys State session.

1956: Chosen to Attend West Virginia University

After graduating from East Bank High School in 1956, Jerry West chose to attend West Virginia University (WVU).

1956: All-American and State Championship

In 1956, Jerry West was named All-American and led East Bank High School to a state championship, becoming the state's first high-school player to score more than 900 points in a season.

1958: Junior Year Achievements

During his junior year (1958-59), Jerry West averaged 26.6 points and 12.3 rebounds per game at West Virginia University and was named Most Outstanding Player of that year's Final Four. He also won a gold medal as part of the U.S. Pan American Games basketball team.

1959: NCAA Championship Game

In 1959, Jerry West led the West Virginia Mountaineers to the NCAA championship game where, despite losing, he earned the NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player honor.

1959: Final Collegiate Season

In his final collegiate season of 1959-60, Jerry West achieved several career highs, including 29.3 points per game, 134 assists, and 16.5 rebounds per game.

April 1960: Marriage to Martha Jane Kane

In April 1960, Jerry West married his college sweetheart Martha Jane Kane in Morgantown.

1976: Divorce from Martha Jane Kane

In 1976, Jerry West divorced his first wife, Martha Jane Kane.

1978: Marriage to Kristine "Karen" Bua

In 1978, Jerry West married his second wife, Kristine "Karen" Bua.

1999: East Bank High School Closing

In 1999, East Bank High School closed. Before it was closed, every year on March 24, the school changed its name to "West Bank High School" in honor of Jerry West, a tradition that lasted until the school closed in 1999.