NBA Icon Don Nelson Passes Away

Don Nelson dies at 86

Celtics Champion and Hall Of Fame coach Nelson dies. Steve Kerr pays tribute to Don Nelson after NBA legend’s death at 86.

Late coach Don Nelson remembered as NBA trailblazer...

Don Nelson, a five-time NBA champion as a player with the Boston Celtics and the league’s second-winningest coach ever, died on Sunday at 86. His family announced the news.

Nelson won five titles with Boston between 1966 and 1976, and the Celtics later honored him by retiring his No. 19 jersey.

As a coach, Nelson went 1,335-1,063 - an NBA wins record at the time that Gregg Popovich later broke in 2022. He led Golden State, Milwaukee, New York, and Dallas between 1976 and 2010.

Nelson was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. He never made it to the NBA Finals as a head coach, but he’s still remembered as one of the most influential coaches in league history.

“The Golden State Warriors mourn the passing of Hall of Fame head coach Don Nelson,” the team said in a statement.

The Golden State Warriors mourn the passing of Hall of Fame head coach Don Nelson.

"Nellie" was one of the most innovative and influential coaches in NBA history and an iconic figure in Warriors history. He was a true basketball visionary who saw the game differently and was… pic.twitter.com/1k5piSC6xX

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) August 9, 2026

“'Nellie' was one of the most innovative and influential coaches in NBA history and an iconic figure in Warriors history. He was a true basketball visionary who saw the game differently and was never afraid to challenge conventional thinking. His approach helped shape the game and paved the way for generations of players and coaches who followed.

“More than anything, Don Nelson will be remembered for his authenticity, larger-than-life personality, and incredible passion for basketball, and his influence on the Warriors franchise will endure for years to come.”

Steve Kerr, who now coaches the Warriors, remembered Nelson as a visionary. He said Nelson’s influence is still felt in today’s NBA.

“Don Nelson was a true innovator whose influence on the game of basketball is still felt today,” Kerr said. 

“He consistently challenged conventional thinking, experimented with different lineups and styles of play, and saw possibilities in the game that others often did not.

“So much of what is now commonplace in the modern NBA can be traced back to the way Nellie approached the game.

“His impact on the Warriors is just as significant. He helped shape some of the most memorable teams and moments in franchise history and built a lasting connection with generations of Warriors fans. His legacy will always remain an important part of this organisation.”