Don Nelson, Boston Celtics champion and Hall of Fame coach, dies at 86

Boston Celtics champion and legendary NBA coach Don Nelson has died at the age of 86, his family announced Sunday. Nelson, a three-time NBA Coach of the Year and five time champion with the Celtics, died surrounded by his family. “On Sunday morning our beloved husband, dad, grandfather and great-grandfather Don Nelson peacefully went to be with the Lord, surrounded by his loving family. Throughout his last week, friends and family encircled him with love, sharing the blessing of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories," the family said in a statement. Nelson, who pioneered "Nellie Ball," played for the Celtics for 11 years and had his number 19 retired by the franchise in 1978. "Don Nelson’s success as a Hall of Fame Coach is so vast, that it could overshadow his playing career, but it would be a mistake to do so.