West Virginia to Honor NBA Legend Jerry West with Monumental Statue Unveiling in June
This June, the state of West Virginia will celebrate one of its most iconic native sons, Jerry West, with the unveiling of a monumental statue in his honor. The ceremony, scheduled to take place in Charleston on June 15th, marks a momentous occasion recognizing West’s extraordinary career, enduring influence on the game of basketball, and his deep ties to his home state.
Born in Chelyan, West Virginia, Jerry West rose from modest beginnings to become a towering figure in American sports history. Known by many as “Mr. Clutch,” West carved his name into basketball lore as a fierce competitor and unmatched shooter. A 14-time NBA All-Star and the only player to ever be named NBA Finals MVP despite being on the losing team, West was a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Lakers throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. He led the team to an NBA Championship in 1972 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980.
Yet his impact transcended the hardwood. Jerry West’s silhouette was famously immortalized as the inspiration for the NBA logo, an emblem recognized globally. After his playing career, West found success as an executive, building championship rosters for both the Lakers and later the Golden State Warriors. His eye for talent and strategic mind made him one of the most respected figures in front offices across the league.
The forthcoming statue, commissioned by the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, stands at 10 feet tall and was crafted by renowned sculptor Julie Powers, known for her vivid work honoring sports legends. The bronze piece captures West in his signature shooting form, a poised jump shot frozen in time—a tribute to the grace and grit he embodied throughout his career.
Governor Isaac Taylor praised the decision to honor West with a permanent monument: “Jerry West is not just a sports legend; he is a symbol of perseverance, discipline, and excellence. He has always carried West Virginia with him, and it is time we proudly carry his legacy in our hearts and in our public spaces.”
The unveiling ceremony will include speeches from former teammates, NBA dignitaries, and West’s family, along with a youth basketball showcase featuring top high school players from around the state. A commemorative plaque beneath the statue will recount West’s journey from the coal-mining hills of Appalachia to NBA superstardom and beyond.
In a written statement, West expressed deep gratitude. “West Virginia is where I learned the value of hard work, where my dreams began. I am humbled and honored to be recognized by the place that shaped me.”
The statue not only celebrates Jerry West’s towering achievements but serves as an enduring beacon of inspiration to future generations. It is a testament to the power of talent forged through hardship, and a reminder that even the most legendary journeys can begin in the smallest of towns.
