Adam Silver releases statement on death of Don Nelson

On Sunday, it was announced that former Boston Celtics championship-winning player and the second-winningest coach in NBA history, Don Nelson, had died.

In the hours since the reporting of his death, several players and coaches, past and present, have come out to offer kind words for the late NBA figure.

On Sunday, NBA commissioner Adam Silver released a statement on Nelson's death:

"Don Nelson revolutionized NBA basketball through his fearlessness, ingenuity and deep conviction. He spent nearly 50 years in the NBA – winning five championships as a player with the Boston Celtics before building one of the most successful and pioneering coaching careers in league history. He brought an unmistakable personality to everything he did, and his impact on our sport will continue to be felt for generations.

"I send my deepest condolences to Don’s family and many friends throughout our league."