Jerry Alan West, born on May 28, 1938, in Chelyan, West Virginia, is one of the most iconic figures in basketball history. Known for his exceptional skills on the court and his leadership off it, West's legacy spans both his playing career and his executive roles. His silhouette famously serves as the basis for the NBA logo, earning him the nickname "the Logo." West's ability to perform under pressure earned him the moniker "Mr. Clutch," a testament to his knack for making game-changing plays, such as his legendary 60-foot buzzer-beater in the 1970 NBA Finals. His versatility and perimeter shooting also earned him the nickname "Mr. Outside," while "Zeke from Cabin Creek" reflects his humble beginnings near Cabin Creek, West Virginia.

West's basketball journey began at East Bank High School, where he was a standout player, and continued at West Virginia University, where he led the Mountaineers to the 1959 NCAA championship game. Despite the loss, West was named the NCAA Final Four Most Outstanding Player. His success at the collegiate level paved the way for a 14-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played primarily as a guard. West was also a co-captain of the 1960 U.S. Olympic basketball team, which won the gold medal and was later inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a unit in 2010.

During his NBA career, West was a dominant force, earning 12 All-NBA First and Second Team selections and 14 NBA All-Star appearances. In 1972, he was named the NBA All-Star Game MVP, the same year he won his only NBA championship with the Lakers. West holds the NBA record for the highest points per game average in a playoff series, with an astounding 46.3 points. Despite playing in nine NBA Finals, he is the only player in history to be named Finals MVP while on the losing team, a distinction he earned in 1969. West was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980 and was named to both the NBA 35th and 75th Anniversary Teams.

After retiring as a player, West transitioned into coaching and executive roles. He served as head coach of the Lakers for three seasons, leading the team to the playoffs each year. As general manager of the Lakers, West was instrumental in building a dynasty that won six NBA championships. He later became the general manager of the Memphis Grizzlies, helping the franchise secure its first-ever playoff berths. West's executive acumen earned him two NBA Executive of the Year Awards, one with the Lakers in 1995 and another with the Grizzlies in 2004. He also contributed to two more NBA titles as a consultant with the Golden State Warriors in 2015 and 2017. In 2024, West was inducted into the Hall of Fame as a contributor to the sport, further solidifying his legacy as one of basketball's greatest minds.

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