Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson dies at 86
NBA Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson has passed away at age 86. Known for his innovative 'point forward' strategy and successful tenures with the Bucks, Mavericks, and Warriors, Nelson remains one of the most influential figures in basketball history.
Why it matters
Nelson's death marks the loss of a transformative figure in professional basketball who significantly influenced the modern style of play.
Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Don Nelson speaks during a press conference before Game 2 of the NBA Finals basketball series against the Oklahoma City Thunder Sunday, June 8, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (Kyle Phillips/AP) Don Nelson, the second-winningest coach in NBA history who won five championships as a player with the Boston Celtics, died Sunday. He was 86.
Nelson’s death was announced by the Golden State Warriors, one of the teams he coached. They did not release details.
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