The death of Jerry West, a WVU and NBA basketball icon, at the age of 86 was announced Wednesday (June 12). (WVU Graphic)
West Virginia University President Gordon Gee and Wren Baker, University vice president and director of Athletics, issued statements following the death of Jerry West at the age of 86.
“As the basketball world mourns the man known simply as ‘The Logo,’ I join all West Virginians and members of the West Virginia University family in remembering a true legend. There will never be another Jerry West. From his time as a record-breaking basketball player in the WVU Field House to his success in the front offices of some of the most respected sports franchises in America, Jerry brought his unique abilities, innovative spirit and quiet strength — the very best of what it means to be a Mountaineer. He was a dear friend and steadfast supporter of West Virginia University, and I send my sincerest condolences to his wife Karen and the entire West family.”
— Gordon Gee, WVU president
“Today is one of the saddest days ever for West Virginia University and the state of West Virginia. Mountaineer hearts all over the world are broken with the passing of the great Jerry West.
“A true gentlemen, one of the greatest players and executives the NBA has ever seen and certainly the most famous West Virginia Mountaineer of all time, he will be remembered forever by the sports world, and this University and its fans owe him a great debt of gratitude for a lifetime of achievement, generosity and loving memories. We have lost the greatest Mountaineer of all time, and there will never be another Jerry West. Our loving prayers go out to the West family. Rest in peace, Logo — a champion and a Mountaineer forever.
— Wren Baker, WVU vice president and director of Athletics
Read more about West’s life and career from WVU Athletics.
Historical audio and photos of West are available in the WVU Libraries West Virginia and Regional History Center’s Jerry West Digital Collection.
-WVU-
UR/6/12/24
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