Ex-Jazz Coach Frank Layden Passes Away at 93
A beloved figure known for his humor and impact on Utah basketball
The basketball world is mourning the loss of **Frank Layden**, the former coach who guided the Utah Jazz to their first playoff appearance, who has died at the age of 93. His contributions to the sport and the state of Utah will be long remembered.
Remembering Layden’s Legacy
“**Frank Layden** made a lasting impact on the Jazz, the state of Utah, and the NBA,”
the Jazz organization stated Wednesday. “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.”
Known for his wit and sideline presence, **Layden** led the Jazz from 1981-89, accumulating 277 victories, the third-most in franchise history. In 1984, he earned NBA coach of the year honors, while also being named executive of the year.
The Basketball Hall of Fame notes that **Layden** received the 2019 Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award.
From Brooklyn to Salt Lake City
Born in Brooklyn in 1932, **Layden** started his coaching journey in high school before coaching at Niagara University, his alma mater. He transitioned to the NBA in 1976 as part of **Hubie Brown’s** staff with the Atlanta Hawks and became the New Orleans Jazz’s general manager in 1979.
After the team relocated to Salt Lake City, **Layden** took over as coach after **Tom Nissalke** was fired midway through the 1981-82 season. In his second season, **Layden** propelled the franchise to its first playoff berth. He stepped down as coach early in the 1988-89 season, with **Jerry Sloan**, a future Hall of Famer, stepping in as his replacement.
**Layden** continued as the team’s president and general manager, contributing to the selection of Hall of Famers **John Stockton** and **Karl Malone**. He also coached the WNBA’s Utah Starzz in 1998-99.
A Lasting Impact
“It’s hard to imagine the story of the Utah Jazz without the presence of **Frank Layden**,”
Jazz owners **Ryan** and **Ashley Smith** said. “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.”
**Layden** remained in the Salt Lake City area after his coaching career. He leaves behind a celebrated legacy.