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The basketball community around the world was shocked by the news that Frank Layden, the former legendary coach and sports worker, died at the age of 94. This sad information was confirmed by the NBA league, with expressions of deep condolences to his family and the Utah Jazz club.
"The NBA mourns the death of Utah legend Frank Layden. He was an award-winning coach and an exceptional basketball worker. His unique sense of humor, honesty and kindness made him beloved in the basketball community. Our sincere condolences to the family and Utah," the league's official message reads.
Layden had a special role in the development of the franchise from Salt Lake City, where he spent a total of eight seasons on the bench from 1981 to 1988. It was he who selected John Stockton and Karl Malone in the draft, two who became the face of not only Utah but the entire NBA.
There are many who remember him and his actions with nostalgia.
A significant mark in NBA history
In five seasons, he led the team to the playoffs, and on three occasions to the semifinals of the Western Conference. The year 1984 will be remembered as a special one in his career - that's when he won two prestigious titles: the best coach of the NBA season and the best sports director.
In the regular seasons, he recorded a total of 277 wins and 294 losses. Although he retired as head coach in 1988, he remained active in the club, assuming the positions of general manager and president. His position was then replaced by Jerry Sloan, who would later lead the team to the NBA finals in 1997 and 1998.
In addition, this honest man was also involved in the women's NBA league, where he coached the Utah Starz team, today's Las Vegas Aces.
As we have already pointed out, the famous figure of the NBA scene left an indelible mark, and the messages of condolences and sadness speak volumes about how important he was to this sport, as well as to the league.
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