Former La Salle head coach Paul Westhead was recently presented with the NBA’s prestigious Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award, a tribute to his enduring influence on the game.
A College Career That Redefined a Program
Westhead coached the Explorers from 1970 to 1979, compiling a 142‑105 record that featured seven winning seasons, two NCAA tournament appearances and a run to the NIT. His innovative “fast break” philosophy helped modernize college basketball and attracted national attention.
During his decade at La Salle, Westhead also mentored future NBA stars, including Magic Johnson, who later credited Westhead’s tutelage for his own success.
Professional Triumphs and Historic Firsts
Transitioning to the professional ranks, Westhead guided the Showtime Lakers to the 1980 NBA championship, a team led by Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul‑Jabbar. He later coached the Phoenix Mercury to a WNBA title in 2005, becoming the only coach to capture championships in both the NBA and the WNBA.
His achievements have been recognized with induction into the Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame in 2024, cementing his legacy among the sport’s most influential figures.
Beyond the trophies, Westhead’s impact is measured by the coaches and players who have adopted his strategies, his commitment to fast‑paced, high‑scoring basketball, and his lasting imprint on the culture of the game.