NBA mourns Don Nelson, a visionary who redefined the game

Don Nelson, one of the most influential figures in NBA history, has died at 86. A five‑time champion with the Boston Celtics and the league’s second-winningest coach, Nelson shaped generations of basketball minds. His family announced he passed peacefully on Sunday, surrounded by loved ones, a moment described as filled with affection and shared memories. Nelson coached 31 seasons across Milwaukee, Golden State, New York and Dallas, finishing with 1,335 wins before Gregg Popovich surpassed his record in 2022.

His unconventional “Nellie Ball” — small lineups, pace, and relentless mismatch hunting — anticipated modern NBA trends. The Warriors praised his creativity and authenticity, noting his lasting impact on the franchise. In Dallas, Nelson helped draft Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash, famously hiding Nowitzki before the 1998 Draft to secure him. As a player, he spent 11 seasons in Boston, winning five titles. In retirement, he lived in Maui, offering housing to families displaced by the 2023 fires.