Jerry West – Clippers Consultant & Legend passes away- June 2024

Jerry West was not only an Icon, the NBA logo, 14 time all star and multiple Finals MVP, he was nominated into the NBA Hall of Fame on 3 different times.  West, nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” for his late-game exploits as a player, went into the Hall of Fame as a player in 1980 and again as a member of the 1960 U.S. Olympic Team in 2010. He will be enshrined for a third time later this year as a contributor.

West was “the personification of basketball excellence and a friend to all who knew him,” the Clippers said in announcing his death. West’s wife, Karen, was by his side when he died, the Clippers said.

I had the absolute pleasure to meet and have many chats with Jerry West the last 3 years as I cover the Clippers with the media and he was a consultant. This guy had a stern scrolling look which could come across intimidating. He was a fierce competitor and total winner. He was an icon in more ways than one.

I was eating dinner in the media room a few years back and he sat beside me. We talked for 30 min. I was in awe as he was very friendly and straight to the point. I don’t even remember the games as talking with him was the highlight each time We would chat and agree on what the clippers needed most which was a point guard many of the chats or strategy. I got to hang out about 10 times with Jerry, which was memorable.

Earlier this year, I walked in and he said “ Hi Todd”. I was very surprised he knew and remembered my name. I know he remembered us talking but that caught me off guard. I couldn’t believe how humble he was and I have boycotted the showtime Lakers series as I heard it made him look bad.

I only wish I got to meet and talk to him before my dad passed away in 2020. He would have been blown away. Jerry was my dad’s favorite player. It won’t be the same in the media room at the clippers games in the future. RIP Jerry