We’ve lost some incredible basketball legends over the past few years from Bill Russell to Jerry West.
And on Wednesday Russell’s widow, Jeannine, shared a heartfelt message from the Hall of Famer’s Twitter account with an old photo of the all-time greats playing golf together.
“So sad to hear about the loss of Jerry West,” the post read. “Condolences to his family and friends. He and Bill had great love and respect for one another. Bill won on the court but Jerry won on the course.”
West passed away at 86 in the comfort of his home with his wife and loved ones by his side. The entire NBA family was heartbroken to hear the news and condolences from around the league poured in throughout the day.
“I valued my friendship with Jerry and the knowledge he shared with me over many years about basketball and life,” commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. “On behalf of the NBA, we send our deepest condolences to Jerry’s wife, Karen, his family and his many friends in the NBA community.”
So sad to hear about the loss of Jerry West. Condolences to his family and friends. He and Bill had great love and respect for one another Bill won on the court but Jerry won on the course. #RIPJerry @Lakers @NBA pic.twitter.com/oICe9kA3b3
— TheBillRussell (@RealBillRussell) June 12, 2024
It’s a tough loss given how omnipresent West always felt going from a HOF playing career to being an outstanding GM, executive and consultant up until his dying day.
They don’t get much better than “The Logo.” May he rest in peace.