Don Nelson, legendary coach and five-time NBA champion as player, dies at 86
Legendary NBA coach and five-time champion player Don Nelson has passed away at the age of 86. Known for his innovative coaching style, Nelson mentored stars like Stephen Curry and Dirk Nowitzki and holds the second-most coaching wins in NBA history.
Why it matters
Don Nelson is considered one of the most influential figures in modern basketball, having shaped the careers of multiple Hall of Fame players and changed how the game is coached.
Don Nelson had success as a player and coach. Don Nelson had success as a player and coach. NBA Don Nelson, legendary coach and five-time NBA champion as player, dies at 86 Nelson had second-most coaching wins in NBA history
Won five titles with Boston Celtics in 1960s and 70s
Helped develop stars Steph Curry and Dirk Nowitzki
Prefer the Guardian on Google Don Nelson, the second-winningest coach in NBA history who won five championships as a player with the Boston Celtics , died on Sunday. He was 86.
“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,” a statement from his family read. “Throughout his last week, friends and family encircled him with love, sharing the blessing of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories.”
The Nelson family did not divulge a cause of death.
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