Steph Curry Saddened By Death of Legendary NBA Coach

Apr 17, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts after losing to the Phoenix Suns during the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images© Mark J&period; Rebilas-Imagn Images&period;

Steph Curry Saddened By Death of Legendary NBA Coach

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Holleran | Last updated Aug 9, 2026 6:00 PM ET

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Steph Curry is among those mourning the death of legendary NBA head coach Don Nelson.

Nelson, one of the best head coaches in NBA history, passed away on Sunday. He was 86 years old. His family announced the news.

“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. Throughout his last week, friends and family encircled him with love, sharing the blessing of his friendship and revisiting treasured memories," his family announced.

Luka Doncic is among those mourning the death, too.

"It’s a sad day for basketball with the passing of Don Nelson. I have so much respect for him and everything he did for the game, especially the way he believed in international players. I’m grateful for the time I spent with him. Thinking of the entire Nelson family today. I loved getting to know you, Coach," he shared.

Steph Curry saddened by his passing

Curry released a statement on Sunday.

“One of the big reasons I was drafted by the Warriors was because of Don Nelson. The story is he never liked rookies, but from Day 1 he challenged me and gave me an opportunity to be my best self on the court. He taught me a lot during our one season together and I'll never forget the night he became the winningest coach in NBA history in Minnesota. We were so happy for him. He had an immeasurable impact on the sport and will go down as one of the greatest minds in the history of the game. He's a true icon and will be missed by the countless number of people he touched, including myself, during a legendary career. Sending my love to Joy, his family and all those who were fortunate enough to know him," Curry wrote.

Statements from an array of Golden State pillars and legends — including Stephen Curry in tribute to his first NBA coach — after the passing of two-time Warriors coach Don Nelson: pic.twitter.com/6qQD2q5GC2
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) August 9, 2026