Basketball Hall of Fame coach Rick Adelman has passed away at age 79, according to an announcement Monday from the National Basketball Coaches Association.
With 1,042 career victories, Adelman holds the 10th spot among all-time NBA coaching wins. He achieved his most notable success while leading the Portland Trail Blazers, an organization where he had previously played during the 1970s. Under his guidance, the Trail Blazers captured Western Conference championships and reached the NBA Finals in both 1990 and 1992.
During his 23-season coaching tenure spanning five franchises – the Trail Blazers (1988-94), Golden State Warriors (1995-97), Sacramento Kings (1998-2006), Houston Rockets (2007-11) and Minnesota Timberwolves (2011-14) – Adelman compiled a 1,042-749 record with a .582 winning percentage. His squads qualified for postseason play 16 times, posting a 79-78 playoff record.
The basketball community recognized his contributions with his 2021 Hall of Fame induction and the NBCA’s Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023.
“Adelman will be remembered not only as a coach and a player, but also as a mentor to so many in the basketball community,” the NBCA said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Adelman family during this difficult time.”
As a player, Adelman suited up for five different teams during seven NBA seasons from 1968-1975, spending his longest stretch in Portland from 1970-73.
Among his six children, Adelman’s son David currently serves as head coach of the Denver Nuggets.
The Portland Trail Blazers issued their own tribute Monday.
“The Portland Trail Blazers organization is deeply saddened by the passing of Rick Adelman, a franchise legend and Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer. Rick was one of the most influential figures in franchise history, a member of the inaugural 1970 team and integral coach throughout the 80s and 90s, guiding the team to Finals appearances in 1990 and 1992.
“Rick’s basketball brilliance helped shape multiple eras of Trail Blazers basketball, earning the respect and admiration of the basketball community and cementing his legacy. His thoughtful leadership, integrity, and kindness impacted all those around him on and off the court. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Adelman family, and all those in the world of basketball who were touched by his impact.”
Officials have not disclosed the cause of death.
