NBA legend Don Nelson, who won five titles with the Boston Celtics, passed away on Sunday, August 9. The 86-year-old — who became an innovative coach after retiring from playing and sits with the second-most coaching wins in NBA history — was surrounded by loved ones when he died, according to a family statement.
"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 blessings of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories."
Although Nelson didn't start out as a Celtic, he joined the Green Team as a free agent ahead of his third season
in the Association. This turned out to be a wise decision, as the talented sixth man boosted Boston and enjoyed playoff success in the 1960s and 1970s. He averaged more than 10 points per game (before 3-pointers existed) over the course of 14 years and helped the Celtics win it all in 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, and 1976.
In 1978, his number 19 jersey was hoisted into the rafters. He is one of 23 Celtics with his number retired. His successful career didn't end there. The prolific scorer went on to win NBA Coach of the Year three times and served as the skipper of the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks.
He is one of many Celtics greats who left the game of basketball better than they found it.
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This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: Boston Celtics legend Don Nelson passes away at 86
