The recent NBA draft marked a somber and reflective occasion for the LA Clippers. It was the first draft without the presence of their beloved consultant, Jerry West, in the war room. West, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in basketball history, passed away on June 12 at the age of 86. His absence left a palpable void within the organization and the draft night was especially poignant.
The Impact of Jerry West
For the past seven years, Jerry West served as a consultant for the Clippers, playing a pivotal role in shaping the team’s fortunes. He was instrumental in the recruitment of stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, helping to transform the Clippers into a competitive force in the fiercely competitive NBA landscape. West, affectionately known as “The Logo” for his silhouette being used in the NBA’s iconic logo, was a figure of immense knowledge and influence in the game.
Clippers' president of basketball operations, Lawrence Frank, remembered West fondly, highlighting his passion for the draft process. “He loved the draft. It was like Christmas. He loved knowing every single player, he loved meeting the players. Took great pride in where guys would go. After the draft selections were made, he was so happy,” said Frank. This year's draft was different without West's presence, and Frank acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the event: “It's a bittersweet day. Very sad that Jerry wasn't here for it.”
A Reflective Draft Night
Without a first-round pick this year, the Clippers had to wait until the 46th overall pick in the second round to make their selection. They chose Cameron Christie from Minnesota, a player who undoubtedly will feel the weight of expectation in a franchise that has only recently tasted consistent success, thanks in no small part to West’s contributions.
West’s journey in basketball began in West Virginia, his birthplace. His talent was evident early on, and he starred at West Virginia University from 1957 to 1960. By the time the NBA Draft rolled around, he was the second overall pick by the Minneapolis Lakers. His storied career included being instrumental in securing the 1972 NBA championship for the Lakers, and he was a 14-time All-Star—feats that cement his legacy in the annals of basketball history.
Honoring a Legend
The Clippers organization has vowed to honor West’s memory moving forward. “We just want to honor and respect Jerry every single day,” Frank emphasized. It’s clear that West’s influence will continue to be felt within the Clippers, even in his absence.
As the season progresses, the team will undoubtedly draw inspiration from West’s enduring legacy. His impact extended beyond the court and into the very ethos of the Clippers, and his presence will be sorely missed. His keen eye for talent, his strategic mindset, and his unyielding commitment to the game were trademarks of his consultancy with the Clippers, and they will serve as a guiding light for the organization's future endeavors.
In remembering Jerry West, the Clippers are not just paying tribute to a great basketball mind but also to the spirit of excellence and the relentless pursuit of greatness that he embodied. The draft may have been a somber affair, but it also served as a reminder of the indelible mark West left on the sport and the profound respect he garnered from those who knew him best.