Former NBA coach and basketball legend Don Nelson has passed away at the age of 86, bringing an end to the career of one of the most influential figures in American basketball.

Nelson passed away on Sunday, according to a statement released by his family. His loved ones said he died peacefully while surrounded by family members, who spent his final days with him and reflected on the memories they shared.

The family did not reveal the cause of his death.
Nelson enjoyed an extraordinary career both as a player and coach. During his playing days with the Boston Celtics, he won five NBA championships, establishing himself as an important part of the franchise’s successful era.

He later built an impressive legacy from the sidelines and became the second-winningest coach in NBA history. Nelson recorded at least 250 victories with three different teams the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks and Golden State Warriors.

He also served as general manager for each of those franchises.

His coaching achievements included three NBA Coach of the Year awards and 18 playoff appearances over 31 seasons.

Nelson came close to reaching the NBA Finals on several occasions as a coach. His teams advanced to the conference finals three times with Milwaukee and once with Dallas, although he was unable to secure a championship as a head coach.

Beyond his statistics and awards, Nelson was widely remembered for his long-lasting influence on basketball and his distinctive coaching career.

His death marks the passing of a major figure whose contribution to the NBA spanned several decades.