Golden State Warriors head coach Don Nelson talks to Golden State Warriors forward Corey Maggette (50) during a break in the action against the Sacramento Kings in the second half at Arco Arena. The Kings defeated the Warriors 99-96. Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The Nelson family stuck together despite difficulties stemming from Don's childhood poverty, the strains of an NBA existence and a big secret.

Nelson, 86, died Sunday in Frisco, Texas. A husband, father, grandfather and NBA legend, he takes with him more know-how and killer stories than a dozen of his peers or rivals combined. He experienced the game at all levels – player, coach, general manager – and did so in the NBA more than all but one other participant.

The NBA community is mourning the loss of Hall of Fame coach and player Don Nelson, who died Sunday at age 86. A number of Nelson’s former players – including Stephen Curry, Dirk Nowitzki and more – shared statements remembering their late coach.

Don Nelson is the second-winningest head coach in NBA history behind Gregg Popovich, finishing with 1,335 wins. But what people rarely talk about are his humble beginnings, how close his college career came to being affected by one of basketball's biggest scandals,

The NBA world was saddened to learn of Don Nelson's passing.

Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson died on Aug. 9 at 86. Steve Nash played six seasons under Nelson in Dallas before becoming an NBA MVP in Phoenix.

The Boston Celtics lost a beloved member of their basketball family this weekend as Don Nelson passed away at the age of 86 years old. The Celtics issued an effusive statement on