Remembering “Dynamite” Don Nelson

There is so much to cite about the incredible career and life of Don Nelson, a five time NBA champion as a Boston Celtics player, who died yesterday at age 86.

I start with an indelible memory of listening to legendary Celts’ broadcaster, Johnny Most saying “Ok Dynamite Don, he dips, he shoots–(so often good) when Don shot free throws.

He played with the Lakers in a 5 game final round loss to the Celtics in ’65 and was on the first of the above cited, five title teams with Boston, when they won in 7 vs the Lakers in ’66.

That is unique, with a most memorable in the great rivalry between the still by far top two NBA historical franchises, is Nelson’s, let’s face it, lucky shot, that bounced high but in, giving Boston a three point lead in the virtual last minute of #7 in ’69, the last game for both Bill Russell and Sam Jones, respective 11th and 10th titles for each–no NBA player has as many.

Don was far more than that shot, as he was a truly integral part of post dynasty title teams in ’74 and to a degree in ’76.

He had a successful coaching career, amassing the second most wins, (Greg Popovich with 5 titles and 6 final round appearances has the most), but had nary a final round appearance.

Don played just one season with the “railroaded” Connie Hawkins at Iowa, but Hawkins was on the freshman team, in those days ineligible.

After “Hawk” had to leave school in a great injustice, Nelson had some stellar seasons with the team, in an excellent Big Ten Conference which included 2 future “Dynamite and dynamite” Celts teammates, John Havlicek and Larry Siegfreid.

Don Nelson pictured above.

I posted this so important made field goal at least twice before. It is the biggest, at least best known Nelson moment, in a well lived life and excellent career as a player and coach.