OKLAHOMA CITY — Legendary coach Don Nelson, renowned for his induction into the Hall of Fame, expressed his disapproval regarding the Dallas Mavericks’ decision to trade Luka Doncic. He communicated his sentiment during Game 2 of the NBA Finals through a unique choice of footwear.
Nelson, newly honored with the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Basketball Coaches Association, appeared at the award announcement sporting sneakers from Doncic’s signature line with Jordan Brand. By wearing these, Nelson openly displayed his support for Doncic, whom he refers to as a “dear friend.”
“In fact, I want it to be known that I’m stepping out in Luka’s newly released shoes from Nike,” Nelson remarked. “This fashion statement is an emblem of my protest against Dallas’s decision to execute the trade. It was a monumental error by the franchise, and I want everyone to recognize it.”
Earlier this season, a jaw-dropping exchange saw Doncic traded by the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in return for Anthony Davis. The move sent shockwaves through the NBA community, and the fans in Dallas met the news with fury for months. However, some of that uproar has lessened recently, mostly due to the Mavericks securing the first overall pick in the upcoming draft, with Cooper Flagg a likely choice.
Nelson also shared his stance on trading ayers with extraordinary talent. Recalling wisdom imparted to him by Red Auerbach, Nelson emphasized, “Auerbach taught me that when you have a truly remarkable player, like Bill Russell or John Havlicek, they are the backbone of a team. You never part with such a cornerstone; instead, you celebrate them for life. That’s a principle I hold firmly.”
Having strong roots in Dallas, Nelson’s displeasure at the trade decision is comprehensible. He led the Mavericks for an impressive eight years as head coach, and his son, Donnie Nelson, held an executive role with the organization from 2005 to 2021. The trade, thus, deeply resonates with his allegiances and philosophies.