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NBA·June 3, 2026 07:43 PM ET

Rick Adelman, winningest coach in Kings history, hailed as Sacramento's best ever

The winningest coach in Kings history has died.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jun 31 min read
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Rick Adelman the best Sacramento Kings head coach ever

What happened: Following the death of Hall of Fame coach Rick Adelman, Sacramento writer Law Murray called him "the best Sacramento Kings head coach ever." The tribute added to a wave of mourning across the NBA, where the coaching association and former clubs marked his passing.

Why it matters: Adelman is the winningest head coach in Sacramento Kings history, and his Hall of Fame career anchored the most competitive stretch the franchise has known. His death lands during the NBA Finals, framing the league's coaching legacy at its showcase moment.

What to watch: Expect continued tributes from the Kings and the Rockets organizations he coached, with the NBA likely to honor Adelman during Finals broadcasts.

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