NBA Legend Don Nelson Passes Away at 86

Don Nelson, a five-time NBA champion and renowned coaching figure, died at the age of 86, as announced by his family. He was a key player for the Boston Celtics from 1966 to 1976, winning five NBA titles, and his jersey number 19 was retired by the team.

As a coach, Nelson had a record of 1,335 wins and 1,063 losses, a record that stood until surpassed by Gregg Popovich in 2022. His coaching career spanned from 1976 to 2010, including tenures with the Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Nelson for revolutionizing the game and noted his nearly 50 years of influence in the league. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012.

The Golden State Warriors, Celtics, Bucks, and Mavericks all paid tribute to Nelson, acknowledging his innovative coaching style and significant impact on basketball.