The NBA community is mourning the loss of legendary coach Don Nelson, who passed away on Sunday. Among those paying tribute is Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, who shared an emotional message on his Instagram story featuring a photograph of his first professional mentor. Curry expressed deep gratitude for the guidance and confidence Nelson provided during his formative years in the league.
Don Nelson served as the head coach of the Golden State Warriors from 2006 to 2010. His tenure was instrumental in the franchise’s trajectory, most notably regarding the 2009 NBA Draft. Nelson was a primary advocate for selecting Curry with the seventh overall pick, having famously identified his potential months before the draft. In 2019, Nelson recalled that he fell in love with Curry’s game on March 23, 2009, recognizing a unique talent that would eventually redefine the sport.
During Curry’s rookie campaign, Nelson demonstrated immense trust in the young guard, starting him in 77 of his 80 appearances. This early responsibility paid dividends, as Curry averaged 17.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game on 46.2% shooting. His performance earned him a spot on the 2010 All-Rookie team and a second-place finish in the Rookie of the Year voting behind Tyreke Evans. While the pair did not secure a championship together, Nelson’s signature fast-paced offensive system laid the tactical foundation for the success Curry would later achieve under Steve Kerr.
Beyond his impact on Curry, Nelson remains one of the most decorated figures in league history, holding three NBA Coach of the Year awards. He stands as one of only two coaches to record at least 250 victories with three different franchises: the Dallas Mavericks, the Milwaukee Bucks, and the Golden State Warriors. His legacy spans the entire league, impacting organizations across all divisions, including the Atlantic (Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Toronto Raptors), Central (Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks), Southeast (Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, Washington Wizards), Pacific (Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings), Southwest (Dallas Mavericks, Houston Rockets, Memphis Grizzlies, New Orleans Pelicans, San Antonio Spurs), and Northwest (Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder, Portland Trail Blazers, Utah Jazz).
As fans reflect on Nelson’s storied career, they can explore the evolution of the game through the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator, which allows users to step into the role of a general manager for their favorite team. The influence Nelson had on the Warriors’ culture continues to resonate with the current roster and coaching staff.
For those following the ongoing legacy of the franchise, you can check out the latest Golden State Warriors Schedule and dive into the Warriors Depth Chart for the 2024-25 NBA season. Nelson’s impact on the game and his specific mentorship of Curry remain a cornerstone of Warriors history, marking the end of an era for one of basketball’s most innovative minds.
Don Nelson coached the Warriors from 2006-10.
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