Don Nelson

Donald Arvid Nelson (born May 15, 1940 in Muskegon, Michigan) is former coach of the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA. Don Nelson had a career record of 339-251 as the Mavericks head coach. He was an instrumental part of the team, scouting players such as Dirk Nowitzki, Josh Howard and Marquis Daniels. He stepped down as the Mavericks coach on March 19 2005, turning the reins over to Avery Johnson (a former Maverick guard). He has also coached for the Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors and a short stint with the New York Knicks.

Playing Career

In 1962, Don Nelson graduated from Iowa University as a two time All-American averaging 21.1 points and 10.5 rebounds a game. He was drafted 19th overall by the Chicago Zephyrs of the NBA. He played for the Zephyrs for two years until being sold to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1964. He was released the following year (1965) and signed by the Boston Celtics. Nelson completed his best NBA season averaging 10.2 points and 5.4 rebounds, and led the Celtics to NBA title as one of their role players. Nelson was coined as one of the "best sixth men" ever to play in the NBA. In 1976, Nelson began his career as an assistant coach for the Milwaukee Bucks, while still playing as a player for the team. He retired from playing after a 14 year tenure as a player. His number 19 was retired in the Boston Garden rafters in 1978, and still stands today at the Garden's replacement, TD Banknorth Garden.

Related Topics:
Chicago Zephyrs - NBA - Los Angeles Lakers - Boston Celtics - Boston Garden - TD Banknorth Garden

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