Jerome Alan West, widely recognized by his nickname "the Logo", was a renowned American basketball player and executive. His silhouette serves as the basis for the NBA logo. He gained fame playing for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA, earning accolades like "Mr. Clutch" for his exceptional ability to make crucial plays, exemplified by his game-tying buzzer-beater in the 1970 NBA Finals. His nicknames "Mr. Outside" and "Zeke from Cabin Creek" reflect his perimeter playing style and birthplace near Cabin Creek, West Virginia, respectively.
May 28, 1938: Birth of Jerry West
On May 28, 1938, Jerry Alan West was born. He would go on to become a renowned figure in basketball, known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport.
1951: The Passing of David West and Its Impact on Jerry West
In 1951, the death of Jerry West's older brother, David, in the Korean War had a profound impact on young Jerry, leading to a period of shyness and introversion.
1952: Jerry West Begins High School at East Bank High School
Jerry West's high school journey began in 1952 when he attended East Bank High School, where his basketball talents began to emerge.
1953: Jerry West's Growth and Development as a Basketball Player in High School
During the summer of 1953, Jerry West experienced significant physical growth, reaching a height of 6 ft 0 in. This, combined with his dedication to the sport, led to his emergence as a key player for his high school basketball team.
1956: Jerry West Graduates High School as a Basketball Prodigy
By 1956, Jerry West had become a basketball standout, graduating from East Bank High School with numerous accolades and recognition for his exceptional skills.
1956: Jerry West Begins his College Career at West Virginia University
In 1956, Jerry West began his college basketball career at West Virginia University (WVU), continuing to hone his skills and make a name for himself in the sport.
1958: Jerry West's Breakthrough Junior Year at WVU
Jerry West's junior year at WVU in 1958 was marked by impressive performances, including tying the NCAA five-game tournament record of 160 points, showcasing his growing dominance and earning him the title of Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four.
1959: Jerry West's Stellar Senior Year at WVU
During his senior year at WVU in 1959, Jerry West achieved remarkable feats, including scoring 29.3 points per game and being named Southern Conference MVP, solidifying his place as a college basketball legend.
1959: Jerry West Leads West Virginia University to NCAA Championship Game
In 1959, Jerry West led the West Virginia Mountaineers to the NCAA championship game, showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership.
April 1960: West's First Marriage
Jerry West married Martha Jane Kane, his college sweetheart, in April 1960 in Morgantown, West Virginia.
1960: West's Olympic Success
Jerry West was a member of the 1960 U.S. Olympic basketball team, which won a gold medal. He was later inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the team in 2010.
1960: Jerry West Wins Olympic Gold with the U.S. Basketball Team
In 1960, Jerry West, as co-captain, contributed to the U.S. Olympic basketball team's gold medal victory, demonstrating his skill on an international level.
1960: Jerry West and Oscar Robertson Co-Captain the U.S. Men's Olympic Basketball Team to Victory
In 1960, Jerry West, alongside Oscar Robertson, co-captained the U.S. men's basketball team, leading them to a gold medal victory at the Summer Olympics, a testament to their leadership and talent on the court.
1960: NBA Draft and Joining the Minneapolis Lakers
In 1960, Jerry West was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers as the second overall pick. This marked the start of his professional basketball career. He was drafted shortly before the team moved to Los Angeles, making him the relocated franchise's first draft pick.
1961: Lakers' Playoff Run
In 1961, the Los Angeles Lakers, with West's contribution, improved their performance from the previous season, achieving 36 wins and making it to the NBA Playoffs. They lost to the St. Louis Hawks in a close seven-game series.
January 17, 1962: West Scores Career-High 63 Points
On January 17, 1962, West achieved a career-high score of 63 points during a game against the New York Knicks, which the Lakers won 129-121.
1962: Lakers Fall to Celtics in NBA Finals Again
The 1962-1963 season saw the Lakers, including a recovered Baylor and West, facing the Celtics in the NBA Finals. Despite West's All-NBA First Team performance, he faced injury challenges. The Lakers were defeated by the Celtics in six games.
1962: First NBA Finals Appearance and Rivalry with Celtics
The Lakers, led by West, reached the 1962 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics. This marked the beginning of a legendary rivalry in NBA history. Despite West's impressive performance, including a game-tying shot in Game 3, the Lakers lost to the Celtics in a tightly contested seven-game series.
1963: West Becomes Lakers' Scoring Leader
In the 1963-1964 season, West emerged as the Lakers' leading scorer, averaging 28.7 points per game. This surpassed Baylor, who was experiencing knee problems.
1964: West Leads Lakers in Playoffs After Baylor's Injury
In the 1964-1965 season, West achieved a career-high average of 31.0 points per game. After Baylor suffered a knee injury during the playoffs, West took on a leadership role, leading the Lakers to victory with impressive scoring performances.
1964: Lakers' Disappointing Season
The Lakers had a challenging 1963-1964 season, winning only 42 games. They were eliminated by the Hawks in the first round of the playoffs.
1965: Lakers Lose to Celtics in Finals Despite West's Performance
The Lakers, despite West's playoff record of 46.3 points per game, lost to the Celtics in the 1965 NBA Finals. West continued to demonstrate his scoring prowess, but the team was outmatched.
1965: West Achieves Career-Best Scoring Average
West had a remarkable 1965-1966 season, setting a career-best scoring average of 31.3 points per game, along with 7.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists. He received All-Star and All-NBA First Team honors.
1966: West's Scoring Average Dips Due to Injury
West faced injuries during the 1966-1967 season, limiting his games and leading to a slight decline in his scoring average. The Lakers had a disappointing season, winning only 36 games.
1966: Another NBA Finals Loss to Celtics
The Lakers and Celtics met again in the 1966 NBA Finals. Despite a strong performance by West, the Lakers lost a hard-fought series, with Celtics forward John Havlicek posing a significant challenge.
1967: Lakers' Season Ends in First Round of Playoffs
The Lakers, under a new coach, Butch Van Breda Kolff, had a better season in 1967-1968. Despite West missing games due to injury, the team won 52 games. However, their season ended with a first-round loss to the San Francisco Warriors.
July 9, 1968: Wilt Chamberlain Trade
On July 9, 1968, the Lakers traded for Wilt Chamberlain, sending Archie Clark, Darrall Imhoff, and Jerry Chambers to Philadelphia. The trade brought tension to the team as Chamberlain clashed with coach Van Breda Kolff and captain Elgin Baylor. West's performance was impacted, and his scoring average dropped to 25.9 points per game.
1968: Gail Goodrich Returns
Gail Goodrich rejoined the Lakers in the 1970-71 season after playing for the Phoenix Suns, marking his return to the team he had previously played for in 1968.
1968: 1968 NBA Playoffs
In 1968, the Lakers, led by West, faced the Celtics in the NBA Finals. Despite a strong showing from West, who scored 38 points in Game 4, he sprained his ankle. He played through the injury, scoring 35 points in Game 5, but the Celtics ultimately won the series.
1969: West Named to First All-Defensive Team
In 1969, the NBA introduced the All-Defensive Teams, and Jerry West was selected for the team, a testament to his defensive prowess.
1969: Jerry West Becomes the Only Finals MVP from a Losing Team
In a historic first, Jerry West was named Finals MVP in 1969 despite his team's loss, highlighting his exceptional performance and impact on the game.
1969: 1969 NBA Playoffs and Finals MVP
In the 1969 NBA Playoffs, West led the Lakers to the Finals against the Celtics. He showcased his scoring prowess, including a 53-point performance in Game 1. However, he suffered a serious hamstring injury in Game 5. Despite playing through the injury and averaging 37.9 points for the series, the Lakers lost in 7 games. West became the only player from a losing team to be named Finals MVP.
1969: Leading Scorer and All-Defensive Team
In the 1969-70 season, West became the NBA's leading scorer, averaging 31.2 points per game, while also earning recognition for his defensive skills with All-Defensive First Team honors.
1969: Creation of the NBA Logo
The NBA logo, designed in 1969 by Alan Siegel, is based on a silhouette of Jerry West, immortalizing him as a symbol of the league.
1970: 1970 NBA Playoffs and The 60-Foot Shot
The 1970 NBA Playoffs saw West lead the Lakers to the Finals against the New York Knicks. In Game 3, West hit a remarkable 60-foot shot to tie the game but injured his hand in overtime, and the Lakers lost. Despite his injuries, West continued to play, scoring 37 points with 18 assists in a Game 4 victory. However, the Knicks ultimately won the series.
1970: New Coach and Continued Excellence
In the 1970-71 season, the Lakers were coached by Joe Mullaney. West continued to be a dominant player, averaging 26.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 9.5 assists.
1970: Jerry West's Clutch Shot in the 1970 NBA Finals
In 1970, during Game 3 of the NBA Finals, Jerry West made an incredible buzzer-beating 60-foot shot against the New York Knicks, solidifying his nickname "Mr. Clutch" for his ability to perform under pressure.
1971: Jerry West Contemplates Retirement
Before the start of the 1971-72 NBA season, Jerry West considered retiring due to frequent injuries and losses.
1971: Injury and Playoff Loss
In 1971, West suffered a knee injury that sidelined him for the remainder of the season. The Lakers, already dealing with the career-ending injury of Elgin Baylor, went on to lose in the Western Conference Finals to the Milwaukee Bucks.
1972: Lakers' "Jerry West Night"
Before Jerry West won his only NBA championship in 1972, the Lakers honored him with a "Jerry West Night", demonstrating his impact on the team and the league. During the event, Bill Russell, a respected rival, acknowledged West's dedication and competitive spirit.
1972: West Wins His First NBA Championship
In 1972, the Lakers reached the NBA Finals and faced the New York Knicks. Despite West experiencing a shooting slump, the Lakers secured victory, giving West his first-ever NBA championship title. West acknowledged his struggles during the series and credited the team's success, highlighting the importance of teamwork.
1972: Jerry West's Championship Win and All-Star MVP Award
Jerry West achieved a significant milestone in his career in 1972 when he won his only NBA championship title. This achievement was coupled with him being awarded the All-Star MVP, solidifying his place as one of the game's greats.
1972: A Season of Triumph for the Lakers
The 1971-72 NBA season saw the Lakers, under new coach Bill Sharman, achieve a then-record 69 regular-season wins. West himself had an excellent season, averaging 25.8 points and a league-leading 9.7 assists per game. He was recognized with several honors, including All-Star, All-NBA and All-Defense First Team selections, and was voted the 1972 All-Star Game MVP.
1972: West Transitions to Playmaker Role
With Gail Goodrich taking on the main scoring role in the 1972-73 season, West transitioned into a playmaker. He averaged 22.8 points and 8.8 assists per game, earning him spots on the All-Star, All-NBA, and All-Defense First Teams.
1973: West's Final Season and Retirement
At 36 years old, West played his final season in 1973-74, averaging 20.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game. Despite playing only 31 games due to a groin injury, he earned a spot in his final All-Star Game. The Lakers, without Wilt Chamberlain who had retired, reached the playoffs but lost in five games to the Milwaukee Bucks. West then retired due to contract disputes with owner Jack Kent Cooke, marking the end of his playing career.
1973: Lakers' Finals Loss and West's Injuries
In the 1973 NBA Finals, the Lakers faced the New York Knicks but were defeated. West suffered strained hamstrings during the series, highlighting the physical challenges he faced.
1974: West's Retirement
Jerry West retired from professional basketball in 1974 after a storied career.
1976: West Becomes Lakers Coach
In the 1976-77 season, West transitioned from player to coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, marking a new chapter in his career.
1976: West's Divorce
Jerry West and Martha Jane Kane divorced in 1976.
1977: Lakers' Playoff Run Under West's Coaching
Under West's leadership, the Lakers, featuring Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, achieved a 145-101 record over three seasons, making the playoffs each year and advancing to the Western Conference finals in 1977.
1978: West's Second Marriage
Jerry West married Kristine "Karen" Bua in 1978.
1979: Induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
Jerry West was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1979, recognizing his exceptional contributions to basketball.
1980: Building the Showtime Lakers
As general manager from 1982, West played a key role in assembling the legendary "Showtime" Lakers dynasty, which went on to win five NBA championships in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1988.
1980: Jerry West's Induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In 1980, Jerry West was honored with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a testament to his significant contributions to the sport of basketball.
1982: West Becomes Lakers General Manager
Jerry West became the general manager of the Los Angeles Lakers before the 1982–83 season.
1982: Jerry West Becomes General Manager of the Los Angeles Lakers
Jerry West transitioned from a player to the front office in 1982 when he was appointed as the general manager of the Los Angeles Lakers, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his basketball career.
1983: Lakers Retire West's Number 44 Jersey
The Lakers retired Jerry West's number 44 jersey in 1983, honoring his legacy with the team.
1985: Continued Success of the Showtime Lakers
The Lakers, led by coach Pat Riley and featuring stars like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy, continued their dominance throughout the 1980s.
1987: Showtime Lakers Maintain Dominance
West's contributions as general manager continued to shape the Lakers' success during this period.
1988: Lakers' Dynasty Continues
The Showtime Lakers, under West's guidance, cemented their legacy as one of the NBA's greatest dynasties.
1995: Jerry West Receives the NBA Executive of the Year Award as Lakers Manager
Jerry West's exceptional leadership and contributions to the Los Angeles Lakers were recognized in 1995 when he was honored with the NBA Executive of the Year Award.
1995: West Wins Executive of the Year
West received his first NBA Executive of the Year Award in 1995 for his role in rebuilding the Lakers around players like Vlade Divac, Cedric Ceballos, and Nick Van Exel, leading them to a successful season.
1996: West Makes Key Moves for Lakers' Future
West made pivotal moves for the Lakers, trading Vlade Divac for the draft rights to Kobe Bryant and signing free agent Shaquille O'Neal, laying the groundwork for another Lakers dynasty.
1996: Jerry West Named One of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History
Jerry West's impact on the game was further cemented in 1996 when he was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History, recognizing his exceptional skills and influence on the sport.
1999: Closure of East Bank High School
In 1999, East Bank High School, where Jerry West's basketball journey began, closed its doors.
1999: West Brings Phil Jackson to the Lakers
West hired Phil Jackson as the Lakers' coach, a move that proved instrumental in their future success.
2000: West Departs from the Lakers
At the end of the 1999-2000 season, after winning his sixth championship as a Lakers executive, West departed from the organization, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
2000: Jerry West Boulevard Dedication
In the summer of 2000, the city of Morgantown, West Virginia, and West Virginia Governor Cecil Underwood dedicated the road outside of the West Virginia University Coliseum as "Jerry West Boulevard".
2002: Jerry West Takes on the Role of General Manager for the Memphis Grizzlies
In 2002, Jerry West took on a new challenge as the general manager of the Memphis Grizzlies, bringing his expertise to a new franchise and contributing to their growth and success.
2002: West Joins the Memphis Grizzlies
Seeking a new challenge, West became the general manager of the Memphis Grizzlies in 2002, aiming to build a winning franchise from a team facing uncertainty.
2002: Foundation for a Three-Peat
West's efforts laid the foundation for the Lakers' three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002, solidifying his reputation as a skilled team builder.
2004: Jerry West Earns His Second NBA Executive of the Year Award with the Grizzlies
In 2004, Jerry West earned his second NBA Executive of the Year Award, this time for his impactful work with the Memphis Grizzlies, showcasing his consistent excellence in basketball management.
2004: Success with the Grizzlies
West's tenure with the Grizzlies, though not as decorated as his time with the Lakers, saw him transform the team into a playoff contender. He made astute decisions, maximizing the potential of players like Pau Gasol, James Posey, and Jason Williams, and signed coach Hubie Brown, who won Coach of the Year in 2004. West himself earned his second NBA Executive of the Year Award that same year.
November 26, 2005: West Virginia University Retires Number 44
West Virginia University retired Jerry West's number 44 jersey on November 26, 2005, making it the first basketball number retired by the university.
February 17, 2007: Bronze Statue Unveiled at WVU Coliseum
A bronze statue of Jerry West, created by sculptor Jamie Lester, was unveiled outside the West Virginia University Coliseum on February 17, 2007.
2007: West Retires from Grizzlies
At the age of 69, West retired as the Grizzlies' general manager, leaving the team in the capable hands of Chris Wallace.
March 2008: West Ranked Third Greatest Shooting Guard
In March 2008, ESPN conducted a poll where Jerry West was voted the third greatest shooting guard of all time.
2010: Hall of Fame Induction for Olympic Team
Jerry West, as part of the 1960 U.S. Olympic basketball team, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
2010: Induction of the 1960 U.S. Olympic Basketball Team into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In 2010, the 1960 U.S. Olympic gold medal basketball team, of which Jerry West was a part, was honored with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
February 17, 2011: Statue Unveiling at Staples Center
A statue of Jerry West was unveiled outside Staples Center at the Star Plaza in Los Angeles, California, on February 17, 2011.
May 19, 2011: West Joins the Golden State Warriors
Jerry West joined the Golden State Warriors as an executive board member on May 19, 2011, reporting to owners Joe Lacob and Peter Guber.
2011: Jerry West Holds 12 WVU All-Time Records
As of 2011, Jerry West's legacy at WVU remained strong, holding 12 all-time records, a testament to his exceptional skills and lasting impact on the university's basketball program.
2011: Release of West's Memoir
In 2011, Jerry West and author Jonathan Coleman published "West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life," a critically acclaimed memoir detailing West's life and career, including his struggles with depression stemming from childhood experiences.
2015: Golden State Warriors' Championship Win
Jerry West was a member of the Golden State Warriors' front office when the team won the NBA championship in 2015.
2015: Warriors Win First Championship in 40 Years
The Golden State Warriors, with West as an executive board member, won their first championship in 40 years, marking the seventh championship West had been a part of as an executive.
2016: Doc Rivers Suggests West Joining Clippers
Doc Rivers, coach of the LA Clippers, proposed the idea of West joining the organization during the 2016 season.
2016: Warriors Secure Another Championship
West added another championship ring to his collection as the Warriors secured victory in the 2016-17 season, further solidifying his legacy as a successful executive.
June 14, 2017: West Joins the LA Clippers
After the Warriors' championship win, West announced his move to the Los Angeles Clippers as an executive board member and consultant, embracing a new challenge despite the difficulty of leaving Golden State.
2017: Another Championship for Golden State
Jerry West contributed to another NBA championship victory for the Golden State Warriors in 2017 while serving in the team's front office.
September 5, 2019: Presidential Medal of Freedom Awarded
Jerry West received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States, from President Donald Trump on September 5, 2019, for his contributions to basketball.
2019: Jonnie West Marries Michelle Wie
Jerry West's son, Jonnie West, who played for West Virginia Mountaineers and works for the Golden State Warriors, married professional golfer Michelle Wie in 2019.
December 17, 2020: West and Clippers Under Investigation
West and the LA Clippers faced an NBA investigation following a lawsuit by John Wilkes related to the recruitment of Kawhi Leonard.
2021: Jerry West Selected for the NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In 2021, as part of the NBA's 75th-anniversary celebrations, Jerry West was selected to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in basketball history.
April 19, 2022: West Demands Retraction from HBO
On April 19, 2022, Jerry West demanded a retraction from HBO regarding his portrayal in the series "Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty." He deemed the depiction, which presented him as an emotionally volatile executive, as inaccurate and damaging to his reputation.
2022: West Ranked 14th Greatest Player by The Athletic
In 2022, in celebration of the NBA's 75th Anniversary, The Athletic ranked Jerry West as the 14th greatest player in NBA history.
June 12, 2024: Passing of Jerry West
On June 12, 2024, Jerry West, an icon in the world of basketball, passed away.
2024: Hall of Fame Induction as Contributor
Jerry West is set to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2024, honoring his impact as a general manager and consultant.
2024: Posthumous Induction of Jerry West into the Hall of Fame as a Contributor
Jerry West's profound impact on basketball will be further honored posthumously in 2024 with his induction into the Hall of Fame, recognizing his exceptional contributions as an executive and consultant in the sport.