Don Nelson, former NBA coach and 5-time champion as a player, dies at 86
Key Points:
- Don Nelson, a three-time NBA Coach of the Year and five-time NBA champion, passed away at age 86, surrounded by family, according to a statement from his family.
- Nelson played 14 NBA seasons, mostly with the Boston Celtics, winning five championships before embarking on a 30-year coaching career with four teams, including the Golden State Warriors and Dallas Mavericks.
- Known for his innovative coaching style, Nelson introduced the "point forward" position and an up-tempo offense, significantly influencing modern NBA play and helping draft Stephen Curry, contributing to the Warriors' rise.
- Nelson retired as the NBA's winningest coach and also served as general manager for three franchises, earning at least 250 wins with each, a rare achievement in NBA history.
- Tributes from NBA figures, including Stephen Curry and Commissioner Adam Silver, praised Nelson's impact on the game, his authenticity, and his enduring legacy in basketball.