Lasting Legacy of Jerry West: A Look at the Influence on History

How the contributions of Jerry West continue to shape the world today.

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

1960: Basketball Hall of Fame

In 1960, Jerry West was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the U.S. Olympic team.

1969: West Wins Finals MVP Despite Loss

In 1969, the Lakers lost to the Celtics in the NBA Finals. Despite a triple-double in Game 7, West's efforts were not enough, but he became the only player to win the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Award from the losing team.

1969: NBA Logo Design

In 1969, the NBA logo, incorporating a silhouette based on a photograph of Jerry West, was designed by Alan Siegel.

1979: Election to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

In 1979, Jerry West was elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

1980: Hall of Fame Induction and NBA 35th Anniversary Team

In 1980, Jerry West was inducted into the Hall of Fame and named to the NBA 35th Anniversary Team.

1983: Lakers Retire Jersey

In 1983, the Los Angeles Lakers retired Jerry West's No. 44 jersey.

1996: NBA 50th Anniversary Team Selection

In 1996, Jerry West was named as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.

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.

2000: "Jerry West Boulevard" Dedication

In the summer of 2000, the city of Morgantown, West Virginia, dedicated the road outside the West Virginia University Coliseum as "Jerry West Boulevard".

November 26, 2005: WVU Retires Number 44

On November 26, 2005, Jerry West's number 44 became the first basketball number to be retired by West Virginia University.

February 17, 2007: Bronze Statue Installation

On February 17, 2007, a bronze statue of Jerry West, created by Jamie Lester, was installed outside of the WVU Coliseum.

March 2008: Ranked Third Greatest Shooting Guard

In March 2008, ESPN voted Jerry West the third greatest shooting guard of all time.

2010: Basketball Hall of Fame

In 2010, Jerry West was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the U.S. Olympic team.

2010: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Induction

In 2010, the 1960 U.S. Olympic gold medal team, which included Jerry West, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

February 17, 2011: Statue Unveiled at Staples Center

On February 17, 2011, a statue of Jerry West was unveiled outside the Staples Center at the Star Plaza in Los Angeles, California.

2011: WVU All-Time Records

As of 2011, Jerry West holds 12 WVU all-time records, showcasing his lasting impact on the university's basketball program.

2011: Publication of Memoir

In 2011, Jerry West and Jonathan Coleman released the memoir "West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life", which became a New York Times bestseller.

West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life

Check it on Amazon

2015: Warriors win NBA title

In 2015, as a member of Golden State's front office, West won an NBA title when the Warriors defeated the Cavaliers 4-2.

2017: Warriors win NBA title

In 2017, as a member of Golden State's front office, West won an NBA title when the Warriors defeated the Cavaliers 4-1.

September 5, 2019: Presidential Medal of Freedom

On September 5, 2019, Jerry West received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Donald Trump in recognition of his contributions to the sport.

2021: NBA 75th Anniversary Team Selection

In 2021, Jerry West was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

2022: Ranked 14th Greatest Player in NBA History

In 2022, to commemorate the NBA's 75th Anniversary, The Athletic ranked their top 75 players of all time, and named Jerry West as the 14th greatest player in NBA history.

June 12, 2024: Death of Jerry West

On June 12, 2024, Jerry Alan West passed away. He was a celebrated American basketball player and executive, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.