Hall of Fame coach Rick Adelman dies at 79

He compiled a career record of 1,042-749 and ranks among the winningest coaches in league history. Adelman guided teams to the playoffs 16 times and reached the NBA Finals twice with Portland during the early 1990s.

After beginning his NBA coaching career as an assistant with the Trail Blazers, Adelman took over as head coach during the 1988-89 season and quickly established himself as one of the game’s top tacticians.

His greatest success may have come with the Kings, where he led one of the most entertaining teams of the era. Sacramento reached the Western Conference finals in 2002 before falling to the Lakers in a memorable seven-game series.

Adelman later coached the Rockets and Timberwolves before retiring in 2014.

Known for his innovative offensive approach and ability to maximize skilled passing big men, Adelman earned widespread respect throughout the basketball community. He was honored with the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023.

Before becoming a coach, Adelman spent seven seasons as an NBA player.

He is survived by his family, including son David Adelman, who currently serves as head coach of the Nuggets.

We at Hoops Wire extend our condolences to the Adelman family, friends and all those throughout the basketball world who were impacted by his life and career.