Jerry West

Did you know the player in the NBA’s famous logo was based on a real person? Meet Jerry West! He was a superstar guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. The most important thing to know: Jerry West became an icon of basketball because he made big plays when it mattered most and his image became the NBA logo.

Jerry West played in the 1960s and early 1970s. He was famous as a brilliant shooting guard who could score, pass, and stay calm under pressure. People called him "Mr. Clutch" because he often made huge, game-changing shots at the most important moments.

West was a 14-time NBA All-Star and he won the NBA Championship with the Lakers in 1972. In 1969 he was named Finals Most Valuable Player — the only player ever to win that award while his team lost the Finals. He was later inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame for his amazing career.

After playing, Jerry West also worked in coaching and front-office jobs, helping teams get better. Today kids still see his shape in the NBA logo and hear about his calm, clutch style. Jerry West teaches that practice, courage, and keeping your cool can make you a legend.