A man of confidence, NBA Hall of Famer Jerry Alan West (1938-) was born in Cabin Creek, West Virginia, the son of a coal-mine electrician.

"You can't get much done in life, if you only work on the days when you feel good," he said.

The self-described perfectionist was the unanimous 1st Team All-American 1959 and 1960 and captain of the 1960 U.S. Olympic gold medal-winning team. He joined the Lakers in 1961. Known for his lightning-quick release, dribbling skill, and excellence under pressure, he was nicknamed "The Clutch."

"I really don't like that name," he reflected. "I've had some bad games, too, and when I do, when I miss the winning shot or something, people can use it to make fun of me."

Considered one of the greatest guards in NBA history, West was named an all-star for every one of his 14 seasons with the Lakers, scoring 25,192 points and 6,238 assists. Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1979, his silhouette serves as the NBA's logo.

After he retired from playing, West coached the Lakers to three straight playoff berths, then took over as general manager and helped to build the Lakers dynasty of the 1980s. Most recently he was promoted to VP of basketball operations and retired after the 2000 season.

Just think you can and you will.