Don Nelson, NBA Champion and Coach, Dies at 86

Don Nelson, a five-time NBA champion as a player with the Boston Celtics and one of the most successful coaches in league history, died on Sunday, August 9, 2026. He was 86 years old. His family announced his passing in a statement, saying he died peacefully in the morning surrounded by loved ones.

"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," the statement read. "Throughout his last week, friends and family encircled him with love, sharing the blessing of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories." A cause of death was not provided.

Nelson built a remarkable legacy over a career spanning more than five decades. As a player, he was a key contributor to the Celtics dynasty, winning championships in 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, and 1976. The versatile forward spent 11 seasons in Boston after beginning his career with the Chicago Zephyrs and Los Angeles Lakers. The Celtics retired his No. 19 jersey in 1978.

He later became a pioneering coach, known for his innovative "Nellie Ball" system that emphasized a fast-paced offense and smaller, athletic lineups to create...