One of the most prolific coaches in the history of the NBA, Lenny Wilkens, has died at 88 years old, his family said Sunday.
During his 15-year playing career, Lenny Wilkens was a nine-time All-Star and twice led the league in assists. Known for his incredible court vision and leadership, he spent four seasons as a player-coach three with the Seattle SuperSonics and one with the Portland Trail Blazers, before focusing solely on coaching. He led the Sonics to the 1979 NBA championship and was named Coach of the Year in 1994.
Across his coaching career, Wilkens racked up 1,332 wins (the third-most in NBA history), while leading six different teams: the SuperSonics, Trail Blazers, Cavaliers, Hawks, Raptors, and Knicks. He also coached the U.S. mens team to Olympic gold in 1996.
Wilkens is one of just five people ever inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach, joining legends John Wooden, Bill Sharman, Tom Heinsohn, and Bill Russell.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver issued the following statement today:
Lenny Wilkens represented the very best of the NBA as a Hall of Fame player, Hall of Fame coach, and one of the games most respected ambassadors. So much so that, four years ago, Lenny received the unique distinction of being named one of the leagues 75 greatest players and 15 greatest coaches of all time.
But even more impressive than Lennys basketball accomplishments, which included two Olympic gold medals and an NBA championship, was his commitment to service especially in his beloved community of Seattle where a statue stands in his honor. He influenced the lives of countless young people as well as generations of players and coaches who considered Lenny not only a great teammate or coach but also an extraordinary mentor who led with integrity and true class.
I send my heartfelt condolences to Lennys wife, Marilyn; their children,Leesha, Randy and Jamee; and all those throughout the NBA community who were fortunate to be touched by Lennys leadership and generosity.
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