The Golden State Warriors hosted the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on Tuesday to open their preseason schedule.
The Warriors debuted their new jersey featuring a patch commemorating the late Don Nelson, who passed away in August. Nelson will always be remembered in Golden State, where he had two stints, including engineering the Warriors' inspired run in the playoffs in 2007.
Before the tipoff against the Lakers, Stephen Curry paid a brief but heartfelt tribute to Nelson.
“He is second on the all-time list of wins in NBA history. He was my coach back in 2009, with some amazing (moments),” said Curry.
“He was an icon in the NBA family and did so much for the Bay Area, so we want to honor him all year with this patch.”
Steph Curry spoke to the crowd pregame to pay tribute to Don Nelson 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/mXpsfX0QYD
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 7, 2026
Nelson was Curry's first coach in the NBA when the Warriors drafted him with the No. 7 pick. The sweet-shooting guard has always credited Nelson for giving him the confidence and believing in him early in his career.
Article Continues BelowNelson, who was known for his high-octane offense, retired in 2010 after Joe Lacob and Peter Guber took over the team's ownership.
In 31 seasons calling the shots for the Warriors, the Milwaukee Bucks, the New York Knicks, and the Dallas Mavericks, Nelson tallied 1,335 wins in the regular season. He made 18 appearances in the playoffs, posting a 75-91 record.
More details to come.