(AURN News) — Lenny Wilkens, the Hall of Famer celebrated as a nine-time All-Star point guard and one of the NBA’s greatest coaches, has died at 88, according to The New York Times.
A Brooklyn native, Wilkens entered the NBA in 1960 as a first-round pick of the St. Louis Hawks. Over 15 seasons, he became one of basketball’s premier playmakers, known for his left-handed jumper, tough defense and calm leadership.
His coaching career spanned 32 seasons with six teams, highlighted by leading the Seattle SuperSonics to the 1979 championship. He earned 1,332 victories and was inducted twice into the Basketball Hall of Fame — as a player and as a coach.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirmed his death; no cause was given.
Rest in peace to the legendary Lenny Wilkens.
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