Ranking the Top 10 Greatest NBA Coaches of All Time

“Love is the force that ignites the spirit and binds teams together.” These powerful words from Phil Jackson, an NBA coaching legend, perfectly encapsulate the profound influence coaches have on the sport. The success of any basketball team is intricately intertwined with the guidance of a skilled coach and over the years, several exceptional coaches have shaped the course of the NBA.

From strategic masterminds to charismatic leaders, these individuals have propelled their teams to greatness, leaving an enduring legacy. From unique styles of playing to an arsenal of accolades won, we will rank the top 10 greatest NBA coaches of all time, who have formed the backbone of championship winning teams throughout NBA history.

#10. Lenny Wilkens

When it comes to the Greatest NBA Coaches, Lenny Wilkens unquestionably deserves a spot in this list. Known for his strategic thinking, leadership, and commitment to teamwork and defense, Wilkens made a significant impact on the league throughout his esteemed career.

Wilkens, who began his coaching career in 1969 as the head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers led the team to the NBA Finals in his very first season, showcasing his innate ability to guide and motivate players. From there, he went on to coach several other teams, including the Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and New York Knicks.

During his 23 seasons as a head coach, Wilkens amassed a remarkable overall win record of 1077-916, including both regular season and playoff games with a .540 winning percentage. He achieved great success, winning the NBA championship in 1979 while coaching in Seattle, and being named NBA Coach of the Year in 1994 and was also had the honor of coaching four NBA All-Star Games.

One of Wilkens’ most impressive accomplishments was becoming the first coach to lead teams from both the Western and Eastern Conferences to the NBA Finals. His ability to adapt his coaching style to the needs of his team and his emphasis on team play and defense showcased his versatility and coaching prowess.

Off the court, Wilkens made a lasting impact as a pioneer in the use of sports psychology. He believed in the importance of the mental aspect of the game and used it to his advantage. Additionally, he was committed to giving back to the community, making him a respected figure both on and off the court.

#9. Larry Brown

Larry Brown, one of the greatest NBA coaches of all-time, had an illustrious coaching career spanning from 1965 to 2022. With a winning percentage of .568, not only did he possess a playoff record of 120-115, but he also holds the distinction of being the only head coach to win both an NCAA title and an NBA Championship.

Brown’s success is impressive, having secured an NBA title with the Detroit Pistons in 2004 and an NCAA title with Kansas in 1988. Inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2002, Brown’s achievements are recognized and respected throughout the basketball community.

Known for his offensive and defensive concepts, Brown emphasized a fast break and shooting drills to strengthen his team’s offensive prowess. He led by example, teaching his players the importance of intense, aggressive defense and instilling the notion of giving their all from tip-off to the final buzzer.

With a coaching record of 1,275–965, Brown has made history by leading eight different teams to the playoffs in the NBA, a record unmatched by any other coach. Throughout his career, he has also demonstrated an ability to transform struggling teams into formidable contenders.

Brown’s coaching philosophy revolved around fostering a sense of family within his teams as he was known for demanding a great deal of commitment from his players but also reciprocating with encouragement and confidence. His dedication to improving players’ skills and his emphasis on creating a tight-knit group have contributed to his success as a coach and a legacy to be appreciated by all as one of the greatest NBA coaches.

#8. Chuck Daly

In the pantheon of greatest NBA coaches, Chuck Daly’s impact cannot be overstated. With a career coaching record of 638–437 (.593-win percentage), Daly’s accolades speak volumes about his prowess on the sidelines. As head coach, he guided his teams to two NBA championships in 1989 and 1990, leaving a lasting legacy in the league.

Daly’s coaching career spanned several teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers (assistant), and the Orlando Magic. Still, it was his time with the Detroit Pistons that solidified his place among the game’s elite coaches. His defensive-minded approach reshaped the team’s identity and led to their success. Daly believed in a defense-first philosophy, and his teams epitomized tenacity on that end of the court.

Despite their offensive productivity remaining consistent, the Pistons improved significantly defensively under Daly’s guidance, often ranking in the top five in various defensive categories. This defensive prowess propelled the team up the NBA ladder, but they ultimately fell short of capturing additional championships.

Daly’s impact stretches beyond his NBA success. Before making his mark in the professional league, he achieved impressive coaching feats at the college level. With four Ivy League championships and five Big 5 championships to his name, Daly established himself as one of the finest basketball minds in the game.

As number 8 on the list of the greatest NBA coaches of all time, Daly’s legacy endures. His defensive focus, championship-winning pedigree, and the respect he commanded from his peers make him one of the most influential figures in basketball history.

#7. Jerry Solan

Jerry Sloan, a former professional basketball player, carved out his place in NBA history as one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time. After a successful playing career, Sloan transitioned into coaching and left an indelible mark on the sport.

With a remarkable career regular-season win-loss record of 1,221-803 (. 603 winning percentage), Sloan ranked third in NBA wins at the time of his retirement. He was only the fifth coach to achieve the milestone of 1,000 NBA victories, making him a true legend in the coaching fraternity. Additionally, Sloan is one of just two coaches in NBA history to record 1,000 wins with a single club, his beloved Utah Jazz.

Known for his tenacious and unyielding coaching style, Sloan earned a reputation for being stubborn but effective. His system, honed over years of hard work and dedication, brought success to the Utah Jazz. Despite the challenges of attracting free agents to Utah, Sloan’s teams consistently boasted an impressive home record and played a brand of basketball admired across the league.

As Sloan’s legacy as a coach is etched in basketball history, his presence and tenacity will always be sorely missed and remembered as one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time.

#6. K.C. Jones

K.C. Jones, with a career coaching record in the ABA and NBA of 552–306 (.643), was truly one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time. Throughout his career, Jones showcased his exceptional skills both on the court and on the sidelines.

While coaching the Boston Celtics, Jones achieved tremendous success. With the Celtics, he claimed two NBA championships in 1984 and 1986. His coaching prowess was recognized further by being named the NBA All-Star Game head coach five times (in 1975, and from 1984 to 1987).

Jones had a unique playing style that translated into his coaching approach. Recognized as a defensive-minded player, he emphasized defensive strategies and instilled discipline in his teams. His coaching philosophy centered around teamwork, selflessness, and accountability. This, combined with his ability to adapt to different game situations, made him a truly exceptional coach.

Throughout his career, Jones earned additional honors for his coaching abilities. He was named NBA Coach of the Month in January 1984 and March 1986. Furthermore, in 2021, he was recognized as one of the 15 Greatest Coaches in NBA History.

K.C. Jones’ impact on the game of basketball, both as a player and a coach, is undeniable. His ability to cultivate a winning culture, develop talented players, and lead his teams to championships solidifies his place among the all-time greatest NBA coaches.

#5. Steve Kerr

While ranking the Top 10 Greatest NBA Coaches of All Time, the number 5 spot goes to Steve Kerr. Kerr, known for being one of the best three-point shooters in NBA history, began his coaching career in 2014 with the Golden State Warriors. With a remarkable coaching record of 475-247 (.658-win percentage), Kerr has certainly made a name for himself in the coaching arena.

As a coach, Kerr has achieved tremendous success, winning four NBA championships (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022) while earning the NBA Coach of the Year award in 2016. He has also had the privilege of coaching the NBA All-Star Game twice (2015, 2017).

Kerr’s style of playing is characterized by a fast-paced and fluid offensive strategy, emphasizing ball movement and spacing. He values efficient shooting, encouraging players to take open shots and prioritize high-percentage opportunities. Kerr’s commitment to teamwork is evident in his emphasis on unselfish play, as he encourages players to make the extra passes and create scoring opportunities for their teammates.

Of course, Kerr’s success is partially attributed to the star-studded lineup he has had the pleasure of coaching. With players like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Kevin Durant in his corner, it’s no wonder Kerr has been able to lead the Warriors to five consecutive NBA Finals appearances.

#4. Pat Riley

Pat Riley, often referred to as “the Godfather,” is widely regarded as one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time. Known for his immense success as both a coach and executive, Riley has left an indelible mark on the league.

Riley’s coaching career began in 1981 when he took over as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. He quickly made an impact, leading the team to their first championship in the 1981-82 season. This marked the start of a remarkable coaching journey for Riley.

His coaching accolades speak for themselves. With 1,210 regular season victories, Riley ranks fifth on the NBA’s all-time list. He has also coached 1,904 games, which places him ninth in league history. A testament to his coaching prowess is his impressive .636 winning percentage, ranking seventh among coaches who have coached at least 500 games.

Throughout his illustrious career, Riley has received numerous accolades. He was named NBA Coach of the Month on multiple occasions, including January 1983, March 1985, November 1986, November 1987, and February 1988. His coaching excellence was further recognized when he was awarded NBA Coach of the Year in 1990 and 1993. Riley’s achievements also extend to being named one of the Top 10 Coaches in NBA History in the 1996-97 season.

Pat Riley is revered as a legendary figure in the NBA. Not only did he excel as a coach, but he has also achieved success as an executive as his coaching prowess led his teams to a total of five NBA championships, with four coming during the iconic Showtime era of the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1980s and one with the Miami Heat in 2006.

#3. Gregg Popovich

Gregg Popovich is undeniably one of the greatest NBA coaches in basketball history. With a remarkable coaching career spanning from 1997 to present, Popovich has accumulated numerous accolades that solidify his position among the coaching elite.

Popovich’s impressive list of awards includes being named NBA Coach of the Year in 2002-03 and 2011-12. He has also earned the title of Western Conference Coach of the Month on multiple occasions throughout his career.

Furthermore, Popovich has an outstanding record of achievements, having led the San Antonio Spurs to five NBA championships in 1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014. He has been designated as the head coach for the NBA All-Star Game four times (2005, 2011, 2013, 2016).

Popovich’s coaching philosophy revolves around a disciplined and structured approach. His emphasis on defensive intensity is evident in his strategy of keeping as many players as possible in the paint, maximizing their time, and creating defensive pressure for opponents.

Undoubtedly, Popovich’s success stems from his meticulous coaching style, years of practice, and his ability to motivate and develop players. His accomplishments firmly establish him as one of the greatest NBA coaches of all-time.

#2. Red Auerbach

Red Auerbach is widely regarded as one of the greatest NBA coaches in the history of basketball. With a career coaching record of 938–479 (.662-winning percentage), he holds the record for the most wins by a coach in NBA history. Auerbach’s coaching philosophy was focused on one simple goal: winning.

During his tenure as the head coach of the Boston Celtics, Auerbach led the team to nine championships, a feat that has not been surpassed by any other coach. His ability to motivate and inspire his players was unparalleled and he was known for his competitive spirit and a tenacious will to win.

Auerbach’s coaching accolades speak volumes about his success. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 2002-03 and 2011-12, and he won multiple Coach of the Month awards throughout his career. His dedication to the game and his players earned him a well-deserved spot in the Basketball Hall of Fame as a coach.

Off the court, Auerbach continued to contribute to the success of the Celtics organization. After his coaching retirement in 1966, he served as president and front office executive until his death. While his impact on the franchise was immeasurable, his legacy as one of the game’s greatest coaches will never be forgotten.

#1. Phil Jackson

Phil Jackson, also known as the Zen Master, Bones, The Mop, and The Happy Hooker, is undoubtedly one of the greatest NBA coaches of all time. With a total of eleven NBA championships to his name, he holds the record for the most titles won in NBA history.

Jackson’s coaching journey began as an assistant coach for the New Jersey Nets from 1978 to 1981, and later for the Chicago Bulls from 1987 to 1989. It was with the Bulls that Jackson truly made his mark. As the head coach for the Bulls from 1989 to 1998, he led the team to six NBA championships, creating a dynasty alongside legendary players like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, the latter being considered one of the greatest small forwards of all-time.

After his incredible run with the Bulls, Jackson went on to coach the Los Angeles Lakers from 1999 to 2004, and again from 2005 to 2011. During his time with the Lakers, he won five more NBA championships, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NBA history.

What set Jackson apart from other coaches was his coaching philosophy, which focused on teamwork, selflessness, and a strong emphasis on defense. His ability to bring out the best in his players and create a winning culture made him an exceptional leader.

Jackson’s impressive coaching career and his ability to achieve unparalleled success with both the Bulls and the Lakers make him a clear choice for the top spot on the list of the greatest NBA coaches of all time. Phil Jackson’s influence on the game and his remarkable achievements will forever be etched in the pantheon of basketball greats as the one of the best NBA coaches in league history.

Over the years, the NBA has seen some of the greatest coaching minds who deserve to sit on the same table. Herea are the honorable mentions:

• Red Holzman (1969-70 NBA Coach of the Year, 1996-97 NBA Top 10 Coaches in NBA History, 2021-22 NBA 15 Greatest Coaches in NBA History)
• John Kundla (NBA Top 10 Coaches in NBA History)
• Jack Ramsay (1983-84 NBA Coach of the Month,1996-97 NBA Top 10 Coaches in NBA History, 2021-22 NBA 15 Greatest Coaches in NBA History)
• Don Nelson (1982-83 NBA Coach of the Year, 1984-85 NBA Coach of the Year,1991-92 NBA Coach of the Year, 1996-97 NBA Top 10 Coaches in NBA History, 2021-22 NBA 15 Greatest Coaches in NBA History)

While team success is a collective effort, it is undeniable that the Greatest NBA coaches have played a monumental role in shaping the league’s history. Their impact transcends wins and losses, leaving an indelible mark on the game and inspiring generations to come.