Luka Doncic Pays Tribute to Don Nelson
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic paid tribute to the late Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson after his passing on Sunday.
Hall of Fame NBA coach Don Nelson passed away on Sunday at the age of 86. Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic expressed his condolences on social media shortly after learning of the news. In a heartfelt message, Doncic paid tribute to Nelson, praising his contributions to the game and particularly his belief in nurturing international talent.
Doncic expressed gratitude for the time they spent together and acknowledged the loss felt by the Nelson family. Don Nelson's son, Donnie Nelson, played a significant role in the Mavericks' organization, helping draft Luka Doncic in 2018 and fostering a strong relationship with him throughout their careers. When the Mavericks traded Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024, Don Nelson vocally opposed the decision, emphasizing that top talents like Luka should never be moved.
During the 2025 NBA Finals, Nelson honored Luka by wearing his signature Nike shoes during the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony, making a public statement against the trade and expressing his deep disappointment in the Mavericks' decision.
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