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 was an iconic American basketball player and executive, primarily known for his remarkable career with the Los Angeles Lakers. Revered as one of basketball's all-time greats, West earned nicknames like "the Logo" due to his silhouette inspiring the NBA logo, and "Mr. Clutch" for his exceptional performance in critical moments, exemplified by his legendary 60-foot buzzer-beater in the 1970 NBA Finals. He was also called "Mr. Outside" for his perimeter skills and "Zeke from Cabin Creek" referencing his West Virginia roots. He left an indelible mark on the sport.
1960: U.S. Olympic Team Hall of Fame
In 1960, Jerry West was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the U.S. Olympic team. This highlighted his contributions on an international level.
1969: NBA Logo Design
In 1969, the NBA logo, designed by Alan Siegel, was created incorporating a silhouette based on a photograph of Jerry West. This solidified West's image as the face of the NBA.
1972: Lakers Held "Jerry West Night"
Even before his sole championship in 1972, the Lakers held a "Jerry West Night". Bill Russell appeared and called West a champion and stated that he wished he would always be happy.
1979: Elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
In 1979, Jerry West was elected into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. It was a recognition of his outstanding achievements and contributions as a player.
1980: Hall of Fame Induction
In 1980, Jerry West was inducted into the Hall of Fame and named to the NBA 35th Anniversary Team.
1983: Lakers Retired Jersey Number 44
In 1983, the Lakers retired Jerry West's No. 44 jersey, honoring his contributions and legacy with the team. This was a significant tribute to his playing career.
1996: Named One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History
In 1996, Jerry West was named as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.
1999: Closure of West Bank High School
In 1999, West Bank High School, formerly East Bank High School, closed. The school had temporarily changed its name every March 24th to honor Jerry West until its closure.
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". This honored West's contributions and legacy in his home state.
November 26, 2005: WVU Retired Number
On November 26, 2005, Jerry West's number 44 became the first basketball number to be retired by West Virginia University. This recognized his achievements and impact on the university.
February 17, 2007: Bronze Statue Installation
On February 17, 2007, a bronze statue created by sculptor Jamie Lester was installed outside of the WVU Coliseum, commemorating Jerry West. This statue served as a lasting tribute to his contributions.
March 2008: Third Greatest Shooting Guard of All Time
In March 2008, ESPN voted Jerry West the third greatest shooting guard of all time. This recognized his impact and skill as a player in NBA history.
2010: Hall of Fame as a Member of 1960 U.S. Olympic team
In 2010, Jerry West was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as a member of the 1960 U.S. Olympic team, recognizing his international contributions.
2010: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Induction
In 2010, The 1960 U.S. Olympic gold medal team, of which Jerry West was co-captain, was inducted as a unit 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 Staples Center at the Star Plaza in Los Angeles, California. This recognized his legacy and achievements with the Lakers.
2011: Holds 12 WVU All-Time Records
As of 2011, Jerry West holds 12 WVU all-time records.
2011: Release of Memoir "West by West"
In 2011, Jerry West and Jonathan Coleman released a memoir entitled "West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life". The book became a New York Times bestseller and received critical acclaim.
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. This marked one of the highest civilian honors he received.
2021: Named to NBA 75th Anniversary Team
In 2021, Jerry West was named to the NBA 75th Anniversary Team.
2022: Ranked Among Top 75 Players
In 2022, The Athletic ranked Jerry West as the 14th greatest player in NBA history as part of their top 75 players of all time, commemorating the NBA's 75th Anniversary. This highlighted his lasting impact on the league.
2024: Hall of Fame as a Contributor
In 2024, Jerry West was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor, honoring his tenure as a general manager and consultant. West became the first person to be enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame as a player and a contributor.
