The Los Angeles Clippers will pay tribute to Jerry West this season by having an empty seat at their new arena and displaying a court decal with his initials.
West worked as a consultant for the team from 2017 until he passed away in June at the age of 86.
The Clippers will reveal the decal and memorial seat, along with a video tribute, during their season opener on Wednesday night against the Phoenix Suns at Intuit Dome.
“Jerry was a lifelong learner and teacher who inspired all of us with his intellect, enthusiasm and love for the game,” team chairman Steve Ballmer said in a statement. “He gave his whole heart to the NBA. We think about him and we miss him every day.”
The Clippers also honored West with an empty seat in their war room during the NBA draft in June.
Earlier this month, West became the first person to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame three times when he was recognized as a contributor for his work with the Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, and Los Angeles Lakers.
The Lakers are also paying tribute to West this season by wearing a uniform band with his No. 44, as he played his entire 14-year NBA career with them and was an All-Star every year.
