sports
Don Nelson, former NBA coach and 5-time champion as a player, dies at 86
Updated on: August 9, 2026 / 8:23 PM EDT / CBS/AP
TL;DR
- Don Nelson, a celebrated figure in NBA history, has died at the age of 86.
- He was a three-time NBA Coach of the Year and won five NBA championships as a player with the Boston Celtics.
- Nelson retired as the NBA's winningest coach, having coached four teams over a 30-year career.
- He is credited with popularizing the 'point forward' position and an up-tempo offensive style.
- Nelson was instrumental in drafting Stephen Curry and contributing to the Golden State Warriors' success.
- His coaching tenure with the Dallas Mavericks also significantly transformed the franchise.
- Nelson also played a key role in a famous shot in Game 7 of the 1969 NBA Finals.