Warriors Make Major Announcement to Celebrate Late HOF Coach Don Nelson During Preseason Game vs. Luka Doncic’s Lakers

Don Nelson’s connection to the Golden State Warriors runs deep, and the franchise is preparing to bring that history back into the spotlight. The timing makes it even more interesting, with Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers set to…

By Pranav Kotai · Essentially Sports

Published: Saturday, 19 September 2026 at 10:02 AM

Key Things to Know

The Golden State Warriors will host "Nellie Night" on October 6 to honor late coach Don Nelson.
The tribute will occur during a preseason home game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center.
Nelson's family and former Warriors players will attend the celebration, and fans will receive commemorative pins.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Golden State Warriors have announced they will honor the late Hall of Fame head coach Don Nelson with "Nellie Night" on October 6. The tribute will take place during the team's first home preseason game of the 2026-27 season against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center. Nelson passed away on August 9 at the age of 86.

The celebration will feature former Warriors players, members of Nelson's family, special in-game tributes, and commemorative pins for attending fans. The event also highlights Nelson's connection to Lakers star Luka Doncic, whose move to the Dallas Mavericks was orchestrated by Nelson's son, Donnie Nelson, in 2018.

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