Don Nelson, Boston Celtics champion and Hall of Fame coach, dies at 86
Key Points:
- Don Nelson, legendary NBA coach and Boston Celtics champion, has died at age 86, surrounded by his family.
- Nelson was a three-time NBA Coach of the Year and won five championships as a player with the Celtics, who retired his number 19 in 1978.
- He was known for pioneering the "Nellie Ball" playing style and made a memorable shot in Game 7 of the 1969 NBA Finals that helped secure Boston's 11th title.
- Nelson played 11 seasons with the Celtics and also played for the Chicago Zephyrs and Los Angeles Lakers before embarking on a coaching career with the Bucks, Knicks, Mavericks, and Warriors.
- The Golden State Warriors praised Nelson as a basketball visionary whose innovative approach and passion greatly influenced the game and their franchise.