Don Nelson, second-winningest NBA coach, dies at 86

Senior Digital Editor/Producer, WCVB.com

Legendary NBA coach Don Nelson has died at the age of 86, his family announced Sunday.

Nelson, a three-time NBA Coach of the Year and five-time champion with the Boston Celtics, died surrounded by his family, according to NBA reporter Marc Stein.

“On Sunday morning our beloved husband, dad, grandfather and great-grandfather Don Nelson peacefully went to be with the Lord, surrounded by his loving family. Throughout his last week, friends and family encircled him with love, sharing the blessing of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories,” the family said in a statement.

Nelson was the second-winningest coach in NBA history, the Associated Press reported.

Nelson, who pioneered “Nellie Ball,” played for the Celtics for 11 years and had his number 19 retired by the franchise in 1978.

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.

Before the Celtics, Nelson played for the Chicago Zephyrs and Los Angeles Lakers.

Nelson coached the Milwaukee Bucks, the New York Knicks, the Dallas Mavericks and the Golden State Warriors.

“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,” the Warriors posted on social media.