Former Dallas Mavericks head coach Don Nelson dies at 86
Dallas News • • nation
Key Points:
- Don Nelson, the NBA’s second-winningest coach and a transformative figure for the Dallas Mavericks, passed away at 86 in Frisco after suffering a stroke and receiving hospice care surrounded by family and friends.
- Nelson is renowned for acquiring Dirk Nowitzki as the ninth pick in the 1998 NBA Draft, a move that shaped the Mavericks' franchise history, and for coaching the team from 1997 to 2005 while also serving as general manager.
- Over a 32-season coaching career, Nelson amassed 1,335 victories, second-most in NBA history, and was a two-time NBA Coach of the Year and a 2012 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductee.
- Mavericks owner Ross Perot Jr. and NBA commissioner Adam Silver praised Nelson’s innovative spirit, fearless coaching style, and lasting impact on the team and the league.
- Nelson’s legacy includes pioneering basketball strategies, mentoring players like Nowitzki and Steve Nash, and being named one of the 15 greatest NBA coaches during the league’s 75th anniversary season.
