Don Nelson retires after 31 seasons as NBA head coach

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 7:40 PM

Last updated Aug 9, 2026

Don Nelson retires after 31 seasons as NBA head coach
Summary

Don Nelson, who had a distinguished 31-season career as an NBA head coach, has officially retired. He coached the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, and Dallas Mavericks, finishing with a regular-season record of 1,335-1,063. Nelson led teams to 18 playoff appearances but ended his postseason career with a 75-91 record. As a player with the Boston Celtics, he won five NBA titles and had his jersey retired in 1978. After beginning his coaching journey as an assistant with the Bucks in 1976, he ascended to head coach just 15 games into the season following a firing.

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By the Numbers
  • Nelson coached the Bucks, Warriors, Knicks, and Mavericks.
  • He amassed a regular-season record of 1,335-1,063.
  • He made 18 playoff appearances over his coaching career.
  • As a player, he won five NBA championships with the Celtics.
  • Nelson had his No. 19 jersey retired by the Celtics in 1978.
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  • 7:40 PMYahoo SportsIn 31 seasons as an NBA head coach with the Milwaukee …
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In 31 seasons as an NBA head coach with the Milwaukee …

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