Don Nelson, legendary coach and five-time NBA champion as player, dies at 86

Don Nelson, a five-time NBA champion as a player with the Boston Celtics and the second-winningest coach in NBA history, has died at 86. He was known for his innovative offensive strategies, including the ‘point forward,’ and coached for the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, and Golden State Warriors, earning three Coach of the Year awards. Nelson also mentored numerous stars, including Dirk Nowitzki and Stephen Curry, leaving an immeasurable impact on the sport.

• Don Nelson, a five-time NBA champion player and the second-winningest coach in NBA history, has died at age 86.
• He coached the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, and Golden State Warriors, achieving 1,335 career wins and three Coach of the Year awards.
• Nelson is credited with popularizing the ‘point forward’ and an up-tempo offensive style.
• He played a key role in developing players like Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash, and mentored Stephen Curry early in his career.
• Nelson won five championships as a player with the Boston Celtics under Red Auerbach.