Frank Layden: A Legacy Remembered
Frank Layden, the former head coach of the Utah Jazz renowned for his sharp sense of humor and pivotal role in the team’s early successes, has passed away at the age of 93. His legacy is celebrated widely, with the Jazz organization stating:
“Frank Layden made a lasting impact on the Jazz, the state of Utah, and the NBA. There will never be another like him. Our thoughts go out to his family as we join in mourning his loss and celebrating his life. Rest easy, Coach.”
Coaching Career and Achievements
Layden’s coaching career with the Jazz ran from 1981 to 1989, during which he accrued 277 wins, ranking him third in the team’s history. He uniquely earned the title of NBA Coach of the Year in 1984 and also received the Executive of the Year honor in the same season.
Early Life and Career
Born in Brooklyn in 1932, Layden started his career training high school teams before heading to his alma mater, Niagara University. His professional journey began in 1976 when he joined Hubie Brown’s staff with the Atlanta Hawks, later transitioning to the New Orleans Jazz as general manager in 1979. Following the dismissal of coach Tom Nissalke in the 1981-82 season, Layden assumed the head coaching role, guiding the team to its inaugural playoff appearance just two years later.
Post-Coaching Influence
He stepped down during the 1988-89 season, paving the way for future Hall of Famer Jerry Sloan. After ending his coaching career, Layden continued to influence the Jazz as the team’s president and general manager, where he played a pivotal part in selecting basketball legends John Stockton and Karl Malone. He also briefly coached the WNBA’s Utah Starzz during the 1998-99 season.
Tributes and Honors
Jazz owners Ryan and Ashley Smith remarked on Layden’s importance, saying:
“It’s hard to imagine the story of the Utah Jazz without the presence of Frank Layden. He was an amazing person who meant so much to this organization and to our fans. His love of the sport was felt around the NBA, and he set the franchise on a course for success, helping to build an enduring legacy for the state of Utah.”
In 2019, Layden received the prestigious Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award and remained in the Salt Lake City area after his retirement from coaching.
