NBA legend Don Nelson has died at 86, his family announced on Sunday, ending a career that spanned almost five decades.

Nelson won five NBA championships as a player with the Boston Celtics between 1966 and 1976. The Celtics later retired his No. 19 jersey in recognition of his contribution to the franchise.

He moved into coaching in 1976 and went on to lead the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks and Dallas Mavericks. Nelson recorded 1,335 wins and 1,063 losses, a total that ranked as the NBA’s coaching record until Gregg Popovich surpassed him in 2022.

Nelson won three Coach of the Year awards, including two during his 11 seasons with Milwaukee. His creative tactics and unconventional approach earned him a reputation as one of basketball’s most influential coaches.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr remembered Nelson as a visionary who helped shape the modern game, while the Bucks and Mavericks described him as an innovator and franchise legend.

Nelson leaves behind a lasting legacy as both a champion player and one of the NBA’s most successful coaches.