"He had a tendency to elaborate on things and make them bigger than life" - Jerry West didn't believe Wilt Chamberlain’s otherwordly claims
To modern-day basketball fans, Wilt Chamberlain’s aura and legacy often appear mythical in nature, especially considering how the 7’1” center was associated with being involved with 20,000 different women to scoring 100 points in a single game. The Big Dipper’s association with such otherworldly claims understandably cultivated an aura of intimidation among fans. However, one of his closest friends and former teammate - Jerry West, having been thoroughly versed in his nature, recognized the former’s tendency to exaggerate and revealed how he once simply denied believing one of Wilt’s astonishing claims.
West hilariously called Wilt an exaggerator
Having been teammates from 1968 to 1973, West and Chamberlain shared the court for the LA Lakers for 356 games together. This extensive time together afforded them ample opportunity to forge a solid bond off the court, particularly given how they experienced finally getting over the hump in 1972 after coming up short in the championship round twice before it.
During his appearance on the Jaxxon Podcast, the 14-time All-Star described Chamberlain as respectful and companionable, often sharing meals with him after games. However, he also humorously highlighted Wilt's tendency to exaggerate his achievements. Moreover, he revealed how he confronted Wilt for boldly boasting about driving from New York City to San Francisco within 24 hours.
"He had a tendency to elaborate on things and make them bigger than life, and he told me that he drove from New York City to San Francisco in 24 hours. No chance. He said he had a Ferrari," West said. "I said, 'I don’t care. You can't do it."
Now, if ‘Wilt The Stilt’ did even drive a fancy Ferrari, driving from NYC to San Francisco within a day is absolutely bizarre. Even if it utilizes the most direct route, the drive typically prolongs for at least 40 to 43 hours as this path predominantly follows one of America’s most congested interstate highways.
West on his bond with Chamberlain
Considering that the pairing of West and Chamberlain was often regarded as the first superteam ever assembled, there was always some speculation about whether the two truly got along, especially after Mr. Clutch, in a moment of frustration, once admitted he would choose Bill Russell over Wilt following their defeat in the 1969 Finals. However, the 1969 Finals MVP later clarified that he held Wilt in high regard and that they shared a strong camaraderie.
It is safe to say their strong bond certainly gave West the freedom to playfully call Wilt an exaggerator.
