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

Don Nelson, the second-winningest coach in NBA history, is dead at 86.

The second-winningest coach in NBA and team history brought the franchise back to relevance in his own, distinctive style.

Shaq," the innovative Hall of Famer transformed a struggling franchise into a champion through his brilliant, eccentric, and fearless basketball mind. Long-time Mavs beat writer Richie Whitt reflects

Haffey/ Don Nelson protested Nico Harrison and Dallas Mavericks trading Luka Doncic. During the 2025 NBA Finals, the NBA honoured legendary head coach