Rick Adelman, who spent nearly three decades in the NBA as a coach, has died at the age of 79, the National Basketball Coaches Association announced on Monday.
The cause of death is unknown.
Adelman's coaching career followed seven seasons as an NBA player. He joined the Portland Trail Blazers as an assistant coach in 1983, serving in that role until 1989 when he was promoted to head coach. Under his leadership, the Blazers reached two NBA Finals, led by now Hall of Famer Clyde Drexler. Portland dismissed him in 1994.
After spending only one season away from the bench, Adelman returned to coaching and went on to serve as head coach for the Golden State Warriors for two seasons, the Sacramento Kings for eight seasons, the Houston Rockets for four seasons, and the Minnesota Timberwolves for three seasons.
His tenure in Sacramento proved especially successful, as he led the Kings to eight straight playoff berths. The franchise remembered their former head coach after his passing, describing him as a "beloved coach whose leadership, character, and vision helped define an era of Kings basketball that inspired our city and captivated fans around the world."
The Kings added that "Coach Adelman represented the very best of Sacramento basketball, and he will be remembered for the way he inspired those around him – with humility, integrity, kindness, and an unwavering belief in the power of teamwork. His leadership helped establish a culture that continues to resonate throughout our organization today."
The statement concluded with condolences: "Our thoughts are with Mary Kay, his family, friends, former players, and all who loved him."
Adelman's coaching legacy includes 1,042 career victories accumulated over his time on NBA benches.
