Luka Doncic expresses condolences after Don Nelson's passing at 86
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 10, 2026, 7:28 AM
Last updated Aug 10, 2026
Luka Doncic offered his condolences on August 9 after the death of Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson, who passed away at 86. Doncic highlighted Nelson's deep connection to his family and their support during his trade from the Mavericks to the Lakers in 2025. This bond was evident as Nelson defended Doncic publicly during that transition, asserting the importance of honoring star players. Nelson, a former Mavericks coach, greatly influenced Dallas's success and was instrumental in Doncic's career development. The Mavericks community is mourning the loss of a significant figure, whose achievements extended beyond coaching into basketball innovation.
- •Don Nelson died on August 9 at 86, family confirms.
- •Doncic learns of Nelson's death during media availability.
- •Nelson supported Doncic after Mavericks trade to Lakers.
- •Nelson coached the Mavericks from 1997 to 2005, winning five championships as a player.
- •Nelson's influence transformed the Mavericks into contenders.
- 7:28 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers’ Luka Doncic Makes Heartfelt Post After Personal Loss
- 5:42 AMYahoo Sports — Luka Doncic makes heartfelt social media post after Don Nelson's death
- 6:52 PMYahoo Sports — Luka Doncic reacts to death of NBA legend who fiercely defended him
"Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic sent out a heartfelt post in reaction to the passing of legendary coach Don Nelson. The post Lakers’ Luka Doncic Makes Heartfelt Post After Personal Loss appeared first on HEAVY.
"Luka Doncic offered condolences after Don Nelson, the Hall of Fame coach who publicly defended him following the Mavericks trade, died at 86.
"After legendary NBA figure Don Nelson died, Lakers superstar Luka Doncic paid his respects in a social media post.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 10, 2026, 7:28 AMLakers’ Luka Doncic Makes Heartfelt Post After Personal Loss
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic sent out a heartfelt post in reaction to the passing of legendary coach Don Nelson. The post Lakers’ Luka Doncic Makes Heartfelt Post After Personal Loss appeared first on HEAVY.
- Yahoo SportsAug 10, 2026, 5:42 AMLuka Doncic makes heartfelt social media post after Don Nelson's death
After legendary NBA figure Don Nelson died, Lakers superstar Luka Doncic paid his respects in a social media post.
- Yahoo SportsAug 9, 2026, 6:52 PMLuka Doncic reacts to death of NBA legend who fiercely defended him
Luka Doncic offered condolences after Don Nelson, the Hall of Fame coach who publicly defended him following the Mavericks trade, died at 86.
Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NBA•Oct 18, 2026, 3:57 AMSale of Lakers to Josh Kushner, Bob Iger could officially happen soon
NBA•Oct 18, 2026, 2:50 AMFormer Bucks guard Pat Connaughton waived by the Charlotte Hornets
NBA•Oct 18, 2026, 2:47 AMWizards’ Anthony Gill claims Washington’s 15th roster spot after feel-good summer
NBA•Oct 18, 2026, 2:00 AMHouston Rockets jersey history No. 34 - Ron Behagen (1977)
NBA•Oct 18, 2026, 1:15 AMMavericks waived Seth Lundy today but I'm told he has …
NBA•Oct 17, 2026, 10:31 PMMavericks waive 2 wings after preseason