2016 has been a year where death has taken the spotlight. With celebrities passing, tragedies occurring around the world seemingly on a regular basis. It’s been a rough year wherever you are in the world.
It’s a shame that the basketball world now has to mourn a legend. Nate Thurmond, Warriors Legend, has passed away at the age of 74.
Joe Lacob, Warriors Owner: “We’ve lost one of the most iconic figures in the history of not only our organization, but the NBA in general, with the passing of Nate Thurmond. Nate represented this franchise with class, dignity and humility as both a player and community relations ambassador for over 40 years. Without a doubt, he is one of the most beloved figures to ever wear a Warriors uniform and both a Hall of Fame player and Hall of Fame person, hence his #42 jersey hanging from the rafters at Oracle Arena. On behalf of the entire Warriors organization, our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family, including his wife, Marci. We’ll miss his presence in his customary seats at our games next season, but his legacy will live forever.”
Rick Barry, former Warriors player and Hall of Famer: “Nate was one of the greatest centers to ever play the game and I was privileged to call him a teammate and dear friend. He battled his illness until the very end, like a true Warrior. His legacy is one of passion, fierce competitiveness, a love of basketball and selfless devotion to others. My heartfelt prayers go out to his family, friends and fans.”
Al Attles, former Warriors player, coach, General Manager and current Community Relations Ambassador: “Although I had prepared for this news for the past several days, I was heartbroken and devastated when I was informed of Nate’s death earlier today. In typical Nate fashion, he did not let many people know about his illness and how serious it was and, unfortunately, it proved to be one of the few things in life tougher than him. Looking back, he was as ferocious as any player in the history of the game on the court, but one of the kindest and nicest souls in his everyday life. He was just a terrific human being who I loved and respected more than words can describe and, fortunately, I was blessed to spend a great deal of time with as a teammate, coach and, most importantly, a friend for a good portion of our adult lives. For that, I am extremely thankful.”
Jerry West, Hall of Famer and Warriors Executive Board Member: “This is an extremely difficult day for me. We have lost an incredible person and someone whom I admired as much as any player I ever went to battle against on any level. Nate Thurmond was, without a doubt, one of the fiercest competitors that I played against during my entire career. He played with unbelievable intensity and was simply a man among boys on most nights, especially on the defensive end. On the other hand, off the court, Nate was about as caring and loving as they come, extremely kind and gentle. He was the total package as an athlete and as a man and someone we should all aspire to emulate. I’ll miss him dearly.”
We look back at “Big Nate” as one of the the best players in the game. A member of the “Top 50 NBA Players” list, Nate Thurmond was a monster, one of two players in NBA History that had a 20-20 average in one season (Wilt being the other). It’s a damn shame that we lose a legend to Leukemia, but we shall remember him as one of the best big men in the NBA History.
