October 1, 2012; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors executive board member Jerry West talks during a tv interview during media day at the Golden State Warriors Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Jerry West, otherwise known as “Mr. Clutch” or “The Logo” turned 75 Tuesday. West is arguably one of the best players of all time — right up there with the likes of Michael Jordan for best shooting guard. At just 6’2, The Logo averaged 27 points(he shot 47 percent from the field), 6.7 assists, and 5.8 rebounds a game. He was basically Michael Jordan before Michael Jordan.
Mr. Clutch played in 14 All-Star games, made 12 All-NBA teams, and was voted to five All-Defensive teams. He ranks fourth all-time in points per game among retired players (27); he is only behind Michael Jordan, Elgin Baylor, and Wilt Chamberlain. Only Michael Jordan has a higher scoring average in the playoffs (33.5) than West (29.1).
To go along with all of his other accolades, West won one NBA Championship, on Finals MVP, and on All-Star Game MVP.
Happy birthday to the former second overall pick out of West Virginia, Mr. Jerry West.