MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The city of West Virginia paid tribute to NBA legend Jerry West during a packed stadium event on Saturday, where they faced off against the highly ranked Iowa State team. Halftime saw the exciting announcement that West’s iconic No. 44 would be retired across all sports at the institution.

Throughout the game, attendees enjoyed video montages showcasing stories and memories centered around West, who passed away on June 12, 2024, at 86. The tributes included voiceovers and clips from notable figures such as Pat Riley, Magic Johnson, and former West Virginia stars Rod Thorn, Willie Akers, and the late “Hot Rod” Hundley.

In an exhilarating finish, the Mountaineers clinched the game with a score of 64-57, leading to jubilant fans flooding the court to join players in singing John Denver’s famous song, “Country Roads, Take Me Home.” West Virginia guard Javon Small, who led the team with an impressive 27 points, expressed the sentiment felt by many players that the victory was dedicated to West. “We got the win for Jerry. He was with us today, for sure,” Small remarked.

In a heartwarming gesture, Steve Ballmer, the chairman of the Los Angeles Clippers, made a $5 million donation intended to aid West Virginia students as a way to honor West’s memory. West had served as a consultant for the Clippers for seven years before his passing.

Fans were seen taking photographs next to a statue of West situated outside the arena. In celebration, they received commemorative pennants featuring West’s No. 44 and the slogan “Forever a Mountaineer.” It is worth noting that West’s jersey number was formally retired by the university back in 2005.

West’s legacy is certainly enshrined at the college, where his name hangs alongside the other distinguished numbers of Thorn and Hundley. At halftime, West’s family members, including his wife Karen and three of his sons, received a warm standing ovation from the crowd. This gesture of respect included Jonnie West, who was part of the Mountaineers’ Final Four team in 2010.

West Virginia’s coach, Darian DeVries, reflected on the emotional day celebrating West’s lasting impact, stating, “Just an incredible day, on a day we’re getting to celebrate his legacy not only for West Virginia basketball, but for the sport itself. And to have so many of his family and loved ones here to be a part of this, I think you can only assume that he had a little helping hand in this one tonight.”