The NBA Summer League began in Las Vegas on Friday after pre-season games in San Francisco, Sacramento, and Salt Lake City. This year’s occasion featured a moving homage to Jerry West, one of the most legendary figures in basketball. Recognized as the muse for the NBA’s logo, West died one month ago, creating a notable gap in the basketball world.
Celebrating a Legend
Courtside seat that is reserved.
The Summer League greatly missed Jerry West’s presence, as he was a regular attendee at the post-draft showcase event. In memory of him, the league saved his usual courtside seat at the Thomas & Mack Center. On the chair was a T-shirt with a picture of West and the phrase “The Essence of Summer League.” Furthermore, a Dairy Queen cup, representing a treat he loved during the Summer League, was placed on the seat. This homage will be present throughout the entire Summer League calendar.
Tribute in video format
A touching video tribute was shown in the arena before the Cleveland Cavaliers and Orlando Magic played their first game. The video displayed historical videos and pictures covering West’s successful career, including his college years at West Virginia, his Olympic gold medal win in 1960, his 14-year playing career with the Los Angeles Lakers, and his executive positions with various NBA teams.
Notable figures, including West, Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jamaal Wilkes, Pat Riley, Rod Hundley, Tommy Hawkins, John Havlicek, and Sam Jones, shared memories and reflections during the tribute. This emotional compilation showcased West’s huge impact on the sport and his lasting influence.
Las Vegas Summer League turns out the lights and remembers Jerry West before the start at Thomas & Mack.
They also are leaving his courtside seat open all event. pic.twitter.com/3shY9U7GdQ
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) July 12, 2024
Ceremony held on the court
After the video, a ceremony on the court took place to celebrate West’s achievements. Mark Jones from ESPN hosted the event and gave a heartfelt tribute. Jones said that despite Jerry West’s achievements and success, he never stopped seeking more. His dedication to improving in life and welcoming new opportunities is remarkable and deserves to be acknowledged and honored at this moment.
The heritage left by Jerry West is significant.
Being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Jerry West will receive induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in October for his outstanding accomplishments as an executive. This recognition distinguishes him as the initial person to be honored in roles of both player and supporter. As a top leader, West achieved eight championships, further establishing his influence in the sport.
Career as a player
West’s performance during his playing days is just as impressive. He achieved victory in one NBA championship, participated in nine NBA Finals, and holds the unique title of being the sole player to win the Finals MVP despite being on the losing side (in 1969). During his 14 seasons in the NBA, West was selected as an All-Star each year, received All-NBA First Team recognition 10 times, and made it to the All-Defensive First Team on four occasions. His contributions were acknowledged by the league through his inclusion in their 35th, 50th, and 75th-anniversary teams.
An enduring influence
Jerry West has had a significant impact on basketball that goes beyond what he accomplished during games. His commitment to being exceptional, whether on the field or in the boardroom, has made a lasting impact on the sport. The Summer League in Las Vegas pays homage to his legacy and the significant influence he had on the game and its community.
Reflections on oneself
The tribute highlighted West’s relentless dedication to enhancing himself and his strong commitment to the sport. His fellow colleagues and those who came after him talked about his love for basketball and his constant desire to exceed limits. His drive was clear in his determination to evolve and improve, whether through honing his abilities on the field or pioneering new strategies in leadership.
The Person responsible for the Logo
Jerry West’s outline has been featured on the NBA logo for many years, representing the grace and high quality of the sport. His influence extends beyond his achievements in winning championships and setting records, encompassing the essence of the game that he played a role in molding. The designated seat and the recognitions at the Summer League are appropriate forms of tribute for a man whose influence on basketball will endure for many years.
What lies ahead.
While the NBA Summer League continues, Jerry West’s reserved seat symbolizes respect and remembrance. It reminds players, fans, and the basketball community of the high level of excellence that West represented. His life and career serve as a source of inspiration, establishing a standard for upcoming generations to strive for.
Summary
The NBA’s homage to Jerry West at the Summer League in Las Vegas is a sincere recognition of his significant impact on basketball. The league pays tribute to a legend by reserving his usual courtside seat and commemorating his life with a video tribute and an on-court ceremony, ensuring his legacy will live on. Jerry West’s impact on the sport, whether on the court or outside of it, continues to be a lasting source of motivation for those who have a passion for the game.