BREAKING NEWS: NBA coaching icon and Hall of Famer Lenny Wilkens has passed away at the age of 88, according to family reports. Wilkens died peacefully at his home in Washington State on November 10, 2025, marking a profound loss for the basketball community.
Wilkens, recognized as one of the most successful coaches in NBA history, leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. He is the third-winningest coach in NBA history, trailing only Don Nelson and Gregg Popovich, and holds the record for the most games coached in league history with 2,487nine NBA All-Star selections during his career.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Wilkens showcased his talents at Providence College before being drafted sixth overall by the St. Louis Hawks. His playing career included stints with the Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Portland Trail Blazers, culminating in a standout performance that earned him the MVP title during the 1971 All-Star Game.
Transitioning to coaching in 1969, Wilkens led the SuperSonics to their only NBA championship in 1979, defeating the Washington Bullets in a thrilling five-game series. His influence in Seattle was so profound that he earned the nickname ‘The Godfather of Seattle Basketball’.
Throughout his illustrious coaching career, Wilkens also served as an assistant coach for the legendary ‘Dream Team’ during the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona. He later became the head coach for Dream Team III, leading the squad to a gold medal at the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.
Wilkens’ extraordinary career spanned over three decades, leaving a powerful legacy that shaped the NBA. His contributions to the game will be felt for generations to come. The basketball world mourns the loss of a true pioneer and leader.
For fans, players, and coaches alike, Wilkens’ death is a reminder of the lasting impact he made on basketball. As tributes pour in, the NBA community reflects on the life of a man who dedicated himself to the sport he loved.
Stay tuned for more updates as the basketball community honors Lenny Wilkens and his remarkable contributions to the game.
