Don Nelson, NBA Coaching Legend, Dies At 86

Don Nelson, the second-winningest coach in NBA history and a five-time champion with the Boston Celtics as a player, has died aged 86.

Nelson’s family announced his death on Sunday. He won five NBA championships with Boston between 1966 and 1976, while the Celtics later retired his No. 19 jersey in recognition of his playing career.

As a coach, Nelson finished with a 1,335-1,063 record during spells with the Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks between 1976 and 2010. Gregg Popovich eventually moved ahead of him in career coaching victories in 2022.

“Don Nelson revolutionized NBA basketball through his fearlessness, ingenuity and deep conviction,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.

Nelson entered the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012 and won the NBA Coach of the Year award three times. Although he never reached the NBA Finals as a head coach, his innovative approach made him one of the most influential figures in league history.

The Warriors described Nelson as one of the NBA’s most innovative coaches and an iconic figure in their history. Current Warriors coach Steve Kerr also praised his willingness to challenge conventional ideas and experiment with line-ups and playing styles.

“Don Nelson was a true innovator whose influence on the game of basketball is still felt today,” Kerr said.

The Boston Celtics highlighted Nelson’s 11 seasons with the club, while the Bucks praised his first coaching stint, during which he won two of his three Coach of the Year awards. Dallas also remembered him as an innovator whose “impact will never be forgotten.”

Nelson’s influence extended beyond his impressive record. His willingness to experiment helped shape aspects of the modern NBA, leaving an enduring mark on the sport.

What do you consider Don Nelson’s greatest contribution to NBA basketball?