The recent NBA draft was a somber occasion for the LA Clippers, marking their first without the presence of Jerry West in their war room. West, who had passed away on June 12 at the age of 86, served as a consultant for the team over the past seven years, playing a pivotal role in shaping the current roster.
Jerry West's Legacy with the Clippers
Jerry West’s influence on the Clippers is undeniable. He was instrumental in the recruitment of stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, helping to transform the Clippers into a competitive force in the NBA. Lawrence Frank, the Clippers' president of basketball operations, reflected on West’s love for the draft, stating, "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."
This year, the draft night was a particularly reflective moment for the organization. Frank expressed the bittersweet nature of the event, commenting, "It's a bittersweet day. Very sad that Jerry wasn't here for it." Not only was the team honoring a legacy, but they also faced the challenge of moving forward without one of their most influential architects.
Draft Night Decisions
The Clippers, without a first-round pick this year, made their selection in the second round, picking Cameron Christie from Minnesota with the 46th pick. This move, while significant, couldn’t overshadow the reflective mood surrounding the absence of West. Frank emphasized the team's ongoing respect for West's contributions, stating, "We just want to honor and respect Jerry every single day."
Remembering Jerry West
West’s impact on basketball stretches far beyond his time with the Clippers. Born in West Virginia, he began his basketball journey at West Virginia University, where he starred from 1957 to 1960. He became the second overall pick in the NBA draft by the Minneapolis Lakers, carving out an illustrious career that included being a 14-time All-Star and playing a crucial role in securing the 1972 NBA championship for the Lakers.
West’s reputation as a basketball legend and his keen eye for talent made him a cherished figure not only for the Clippers but for the entire NBA community. His absence is felt deeply within the organization that he helped transform into a formidable competitor.
Moving Forward
The Clippers are now faced with the challenge of progressing without one of their key contributors. The organization’s sentiment is clear: continuing to honor Jerry West's legacy is a priority. As they integrate new talent like Cameron Christie and strive to maintain their competitive edge, the Clippers' administration and players will undoubtedly draw inspiration from West’s remarkable career and dedication to the sport.
In every draft pick and every game, the influence of Jerry West will remain a guiding force for the LA Clippers, ensuring his legacy endures within the NBA.