The basketball world is saying goodbye to one of its most colorful and beloved figures.
Frank Layden, the longtime Utah Jazz head coach and executive, has passed away at the age of 93.
His career spanned decades, but it was his warmth, wit, and leadership that truly left a mark on the sport.
A Legacy That Shaped the Jazz
Layden wasn’t just a coach—he was a central figure in the Utah Jazz’s rise during the 1980s.
After joining the franchise in 1979 as general manager, he stepped into the head coach role in 1981 and led the team for seven years.
Under his leadership, the Jazz reached the playoffs after the 1984 season, and Layden was named that year’s NBA Coach of the Year—one of the highest honors in the game.
His final coaching record stood at 277 wins and 294 losses, but his true legacy was never just about the numbers.
NBA and Jazz Reflect on His Impact
Following the announcement of his passing, tributes poured in.
The NBA released a statement, calling Layden a “beloved figure” who brought “genuine kindness and a unique sense of humor” to the sport.
The Utah Jazz echoed the sentiment, describing him as someone who made a “lasting impact” not just on the team, but on the entire state of Utah and the NBA itself.
Their message ended with a heartfelt farewell:
“There will never be another like him. Rest easy, Coach.”
Fans Share Their Memories
After news of his death broke on Wednesday night, fans across social media posted their own memories and tributes to Layden.
Many recalled his charismatic press conferences, his passion for the game, and his role in turning the Jazz into a competitive and respected franchise.
From Assistant Coach to Front Office Leader
Layden began his NBA journey in 1976 with the Atlanta Hawks as an assistant coach.
He moved to the Jazz in 1979, where he quickly rose through the ranks.
After his coaching stint ended in 1988, he didn’t step away from the team—he continued as team president and general manager, remaining a guiding force behind the scenes.
Even in retirement, Layden stayed close to the game and to the Utah community.
He made Salt Lake City his permanent home and continued to be celebrated for his contributions to basketball.
Honored with Lifetime Achievement
In 2019, Layden received the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award, a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much to the sport over the years.
The award recognized not only his coaching achievements but also his enduring influence and leadership off the court.
Saying Goodbye to a Basketball Giant
Frank Layden’s passing marks the end of an era for Utah basketball and for the NBA as a whole.
He was more than a coach—he was a mentor, a leader, and a friend to many within the sport.
His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, both on and off the court.