NBA legend and Warriors Executive Board member Jerry West joined Murph & Mac on KNBR to talk about the death of his friend and former on-court opponent Nate Thurmond.
West had plenty to say about the former Warrior, Hall of Famer, and top 50 NBA player of all time. The former Lakers guard raved about Thurmond’s life and legacy, both on and off the court.
“He was one of the great, great defensive centers we’ve ever seen in this game,” West said. “He was one of my very favorite players.”
West spoke of Thurmond’s quiet demeanor and willingness to let his basketball accomplishments fly under the radar both during and after his playing days.
Thurmond, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 74 due to leukemia, averaged 15 points and 15 rebounds per game in his 14-year career. His number 42 jersey is retired by the Warriors, who he played with for 11 seasons, and his hometown Cavaliers, who he finished his career with.
To West, the gentle giant’s actions off the court stood out above anything else. West said that his own quiet and tempered personality is probably what drew him to Thurmond.
“I was always struck by his soft-spoken voice, his knowledge of the game, and more importantly, how he treated people,” West said.
