What happened: Nelson could be salty when angered, but Silver said the coach consistently helped him and his colleagues understand the game and do their jobs. Silver also called Nelson an elite coach.
Why it matters: The remembrance adds a reporter's perspective to tributes following Don Nelson's death at 86. His teaching shaped how journalists explained basketball to fans.
By the numbers: Nelson finished with a 1,335-1,063 coaching record. His 1,335 wins rank second in NBA history.
What to watch: A celebration of Nelson's life is scheduled for Aug. 13 in Dallas.