Magic Johnson pens heartfelt Jerry West tribute as NBA fans mourn death of 'The Logo': "Jerry West was a great man, a leader of men"

The NBA community lost an iconic figure today with the death of Jerry West, aka "The Logo." He earned his reputation through an impressive basketball resume and being a successful executive. Following the unfortunate news, Lakers legend Magic Johnson posted his reaction on X while several NBA fans also mourned the death of a prominent figure in basketball.

Originally, West was the catalyst for the Lakers' "Showtime" era when he acquired Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and James Worthy. His vision resulted in one of the best dynasties in NBA history as it resulted in five championship rings in the process.

"I met Jerry West for the first time in 1979 at the Forum," Johnson posted, "where he introduced me to Bill Sharman, Chick Hearn, and then Laker owner Jack Kent Cooke. ... Every time I achieved a goal or crossed a milestone, one of the first calls I received was from Jerry West. ... Beyond his basketball accolades ... Jerry West was a great man, a leader of men."

Following the post, several NBA fans shared their reactions in the comments section.

"Beautiful. May Jerry West's soul rest in eternal peace."

X user @PatrickDoyle_35 was moved by Johnson's post as he mourned the loss of West.

"Thanks for this heartfelt and moving sentiment, Magic! We've lost some great ones lately," the fan posted.

Additionally, X user Lakers on X (@LakersonX) appreciated the heartfelt story shared by Magic Johnson.

"Magic, you just told us a great story to honor Jerry West. Rest in peace, Jerry West, the NBA logo," the fan posted.

X user Franklin (@franklinisbored) looked back fondly on the dynamic tandem between West and Johnson.

"RIP - Magic you and Jerry were a powerful combo that won many rings in LA. Glad he inspired you," the fan posted.

Moreover, X user Albert (@AlRille) praised the kind of person that West was.

"Most eloquently put. Mr. Jerry 'The Logo West! When I heard him speak about people & his mannerism was always complimentary towards others. He shall now rest with Kings. RIP," the fan posted.

X user Jeffrey Banks (@jefbanks) wished the best for Johnson amid his grieving.

"Love you, Magic. May you find peace in your grieving," the fan posted.

For all of his accomplishments, West was viewed as the gold standard for winning at a high level in the league. Being used as the logo for a global brand such as the NBA is already an incredible achievement and honor in itself. The resume didn't just speak for itself as West carried himself in a certain manner that led to many following behind him.

Whether he was dribbling a basketball or making moves to cultivate a franchise's outlook, he was a winner and a competitor through and through.

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Michael Jordan sends text to NBA analyst after Jerry West's death

During a segment of ESPN's "First Take," Michael Jordan sent a heartfelt text to NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith after the death of Jerry West.

"I am so deeply saddened at the news of Jerry's passing," Jordan texted. "He was truly a friend and a mentor. Like an older brother to me. I valued his friendship and knowledge. I always wished I could've played against him as a competitor. But the more I came to know him, I wish I had been his teammate."

Despite missing the opportunity to play in the same era as West, Michael Jordan shared his preference to have been given the opportunity to be his teammate over his competitor.

Acknowledging what he did and the legacy he left for the league, the Chicago Bulls legend praised his knowledge of the game and for being a prominent mentor for many players.