Don Nelson, one of the winningest coaches in NBA history, an NBA champion five times as a player and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, has passed away, as announced on Sunday. Nelson was 86 years old.
“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,” Nelson’s family said in a statement. “Throughout his last week, friends and family encircled him with love, sharing the blessing of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories.”
It’s a sad day for basketball with the passing of Don Nelson.
I have so much respect for him and everything he did for the game, especially the way he believed in international players. I’m grateful for the time I spent with him.
Thinking of the entire Nelson family today. I… pic.twitter.com/GqIobWNB9i
— Luka Dončić (@lukadoncic) August 9, 2026
In 31 seasons as an NBA head coach for the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors (on two separate occasions), New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks, Don Nelson left behind a regular-season win-loss record of 1,335-1,063.
Nelson held the highest number of victories among all coaches until Gregg Popovich of San Antonio Spurs surpassed him in March 2022, per ESPN.
It’s a sad day for basketball with the passing of Don Nelson.
I have so much respect for him and everything he did for the game, especially the way he believed in international players. I’m grateful for the time I spent with him.
Thinking of the entire Nelson family today. I… pic.twitter.com/GqIobWNB9i
— Luka Dončić (@lukadoncic) August 9, 2026
Don Nelson appeared in 18 playoff seasons and left behind a 75-91 playoff season record.
“The Celtics extend our deep condolences to Nelson’s family, loved ones, and everyone he touched through his rich and impactful life in basketball and beyond,” the Celtics said in a statement.
As a player, Nelson won five NBA championships during his 11 seasons with the Boston Celtics, whose No. 19 jersey is now retired. In total, he spent 14 seasons in the NBA.
