Don Nelson, NBA coaching pioneer and 5-time champion, dies at 86

Don Nelson, a Hall of Fame basketball figure and one of the most influential coaches in NBA history, has died at the age of 86. His family announced his peaceful passing on Sunday.

Nelson’s career was marked by significant achievements both as a player and a coach. As a player, he won five NBA championships with the Boston Celtics between 1966 and 1976, earning a retired number 19 jersey from the franchise. As a coach, he amassed 1,335 regular-season victories across stints with the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks. This win total was an NBA record until it was surpassed by Gregg Popovich in 2022.

Widely recognized for his innovative “Nellie Ball” philosophy, Nelson pioneered tactical shifts including small-ball lineups, increased pace, and the use of “point forwards.” His influence on the modern game is noted by peers and players alike, including Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr and superstar Luka Doncic, who praised Nelson’s belief in international players. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012.