Here are the best coach/player duos in each NBA team’s history.We have seen so many great duos throughout NBA history. From Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant to Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, All-Star pairings have dominated the league. Players always receive the most credit but what about the best player/coach combinations?
It can be argued that the strength of a team’s coach is just as important as the quality of their players. In many cases, a good coach unlocks the full potential of a team/player. In contrast, falling into the wrong system can derail a star’s career and limit them from reaching their peak.
Different coaching styles work with different players. At the end of the day, it is up to the coach to adjust to his star and force him into the right direction for success. Only the best of the best have managed to do this.
Every once in awhile, we get a duo that is truly special. A brilliant coach, combined with a star player, is enough to win multiple championships in this league. Here, we are going to focus on all the times a player and coach mixed together perfectly. It’s time to highlight the best player/coach duos in each team’s history.
NBA history</a>. From Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant to Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant, All-Star pairings have dominated the league. Players always receive the most credit but what about the best player/coach combinations?</p>
<p>It can be argued that the strength of a team’s coach is just as important as the quality of their players. In many cases, a good coach unlocks the full potential of a team/player. In contrast, falling into the wrong system can derail a star’s career and limit them from reaching their peak.</p>
<p>Different coaching styles work with different players. At the end of the day, it is up to the coach to adjust to his star and force him into the right direction for success. Only the best of the best have managed to do this.</p>
<p>Every once in awhile, we get a duo that is truly special. A brilliant coach, combined with a star player, is enough to win multiple championships in this league. Here, we are going to focus on all the times a player and coach mixed together perfectly. It’s time to highlight the best player/coach duos in each team’s history.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Atlanta Hawks </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366841" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2160,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F923152800.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2160" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/923152800.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/923152800-768x518.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Atlanta Hawks history: Mike Fratello & Dominique Wilkins</h2>
<p>Coaching a player as athletic as Dominique Wilkins had to be a delight. The Human Highlight Film could fly over the top of defenses like no other star the league had ever seen before. To this day, Wilkins stands as one of the greatest dunkers in league history.</p>
<p>Still, Wilkins’ athleticism needed to be focused in the right direction. As we all know, brute force will only get you so far in the NBA. It is true skill that sets All-Stars apart from legends. This is where head coach Mike Fratello stepped in to help Wilkins take his game to the next level for the Atlanta Hawks.</p>
<p>Joining the team after Wilkins’ rookie season, Fratello played a pivotal role in assisting his development into an All-Star by his fourth season. Wilkins averaged a career-high 30.3 points and 7.9 rebounds per game, bursting on to the scene as a superstar.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Fratello took home the Coach of the Year Award in the same season. The Hawks won 50 games in the regular season but fell 4-1 to the Boston Celtics in the second round of the postseason.</p>
<p>Atlanta would get another chance to beat the Celtics a few years later. These two powerhouses met in the 1988 Eastern Conference Semifinals. Here, Wilkins and Bird put on one of the most memorable battles in league history.</p>
<p>For the series, Bird averaged 26.2 points per game while Wilkins put up 31.3 points. They each traded blows, taking the series to a decisive Game 7. In this final meeting, Wilkins erupted for 47 points but his team fell two points short as Bird posted 34 points and won the series.</p>
<p>Although Wilkins and Fratello never won a championship together, they sure left their mark on the league.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Boston Celtics </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-269674" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2862,w_3600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F09%2F451914124-boston-celtics-bill-russell.jpg.jpg" alt="NBA" width="3600" height="2862" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/09/451914124-boston-celtics-bill-russell.jpg.jpg 3600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/09/451914124-boston-celtics-bill-russell.jpg-768x611.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3600px) 100vw, 3600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3600px;">Photo by Dick Raphael/NBAE via Getty Images</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Boston Celtics history: Red Auerbach & Bill Russell</h2>
<p>The first iconic coach/player pairing in NBA history. It doesn’t get much more legendary than Bill Russell and Red Auerbach on the Boston Celtics.</p>
<p>Their relationship went further than the basketball court, Red and Russell were legitimate friends. This may because even when no one else believed in Russell, Auerbach was there with unwavering support from day one.</p>
<p>(According to the Tampa Bay Times,Russell described one of the first moments meeting Red <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.tampabay.com/sports/basketball/nba/celtics-legend-bill-russell-discusses-red-auerbach-todays-players-and-more/2328391" target="_blank" rel="noopener">when he told him</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p>“You may be worried about playing with this team. But I’m the coach, you’ll fit.”</p></blockquote>
<p>Of course, Russell did more than just fit with the team. Becoming one of the league’s first superstars, Russell anchored the Celtics defense to 11 championships in 13 seasons. During this time, Russell averaged 22.5 rebounds per game, giving him the second-highest rebounds per game total of any player outside of Wilt Chamberlain.</p>
<p><strong>Bill Russell and Red Auerbach’s record together:<br>
</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Regular season: 514-216</li>
<li>Playoffs: 84-46</li>
</ul>
<p>Auerbach was there for every step of the way as this iconic duo broke down barriers on and off the court. Their accomplishments still stand today as some of the most impressive in league history. We may never see a team dominate an era like the Celtics did during this time.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Brookyln Nets </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366844" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2109,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F72444915.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2109" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/72444915.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/72444915-768x506.jpeg 768w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/72444915-850x560.jpeg 850w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">Copyright 2002 NBAE Mandatory Credit: Andrew Bernstein/NBAE/Getty Images</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Brooklyn Nets history: Byron Scott & Jason Kidd</h2>
<p>Point guards have been described as an extension of the head coach. A good point guard should be able to act as a general on the floor, orchestrating the offense and keeping his team focused.</p>
<p>Jason Kidd is one of the best to ever do this and it is largely due to the assistance of his head coach, Byron Scott.</p>
<p>Scott is no stranger to running an NBA offense. Playing the guard position next to Magic Johnson in the 1980s, Scott saw first hand how to lead a team at an elite level.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe width="500" height="281" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/pCWoyFBpV4U?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>Naturally, Kidd soaked up all of this information from Scott and elevated his game. Already a six-time All-Star by the time he joined forces with Scott, Kidd managed to reach back-to-back NBA Finals in his first two seasons with the New Jersey Nets.</p>
<p>Kidd averaged 14.9 points and 9.0 assists per game with the Nets, finishing as the organization’s assists leader with 4,620. Kidd also leads the franchise in steals and total 3-pointers made.</p>
<p>Sadly, the Nets ran into two legendary franchises in the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs in each Finals appearance. Both resulted in disappointing losses. Regardless of their shortcomings, Scott and Kidd proved to be an effective pairing that nearly won it all.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Charlotte Hornets </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366845" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F514903502.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/514903502.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/514903502-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Brock Williams-Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Charlotte Hornets history: Steve Clifford & Kemba Walker</h2>
<p>Digging through the history of the Charlotte Hornets, it was not easy finding a suitable player/coach duo worthy of this list. At the end of the day, we have to give credit to the best player to ever suit up for the franchise, Kemba Walker.</p>
<p>Playing eight seasons for the Hornets, Walker bloomed into a three-time All-Star and is the franchise’s all-time leader in points. A large reason for Walkers success was the guidance of his head coach, Steve Clifford.</p>
<p>Clifford joined the team during Walkers third season in the NBA. His immediate presence helped Kemba become a better playmaker, averaging a career-high 6.1 assists per game in the 2013-14 season.</p>
<p><strong>Steve Clifford accolades:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>2013-14 Coach of the Month (April)</li>
<li>2015-16 Coach of the Month (March)</li>
<li>2018-19 Coach of the Month (March)</li>
</ul>
<p>Together, this duo did not achieve much in terms of playoff success. The Hornets only reached the postseason twice in the last eight years and were defeated in the first round both times.</p>
<p>Regardless, Walker and Clifford served as beacons of hope that dragged the franchise out of a historically bad run. From 2010-2012, the Hornets had an overall record of 16-78. Once Clifford and Walker took over, the squad won 48 games in the 2015-16 season. This is the most wins the franchise has had in a single season since the 1999-00 season.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Chicago Bulls </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366846" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F486269205.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/486269205.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/486269205-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Chicago Bulls history: Michael Jordan & Phil Jackson</h2>
<p>It doesn’t get more iconic than this. Two of the greatest of all-time, Michael Jordan and Phil Jackson are a monster of a duo.</p>
<p>Jackson’s coaching methods have become notorious. The guru of basketball, Jackson understood how to bring the best out of each player he coached. Dubbed the “Zen Master”, Jackson practiced many different techniques of meditating with his team to unlock their full potential.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe width="500" height="281" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/cuLprHh_BRg?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>Of course, it helps when you have Michael Jordan on your team. In the 1990s, Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six championships (two three-peats) and racked up enough accolades to compete with any NBA legend.</p>
<p>In the 90s, Jordan earned seven All-Star and All-NBA selections. In addition to this, he won six Finals MVPs and four regular season MVPs. At the end of this run, Jordan retired as the GOAT in almost everyone’s eyes.</p>
<p>With Jackson on the sidelines to aid Jordan through any adversity, the Bulls were on top of the basketball world. A perfect 6-0 record in the NBA Finals gives MJ and Phil a flawless resume together.</p>
<p>Even without Jordan for two seasons, Jackson managed to keep the Bulls in championship contention. With Scottie Pippen leading the charge on the court, the Bulls fell short of reaching the Conference Finals in back-to-back seasons.</p>
<p>Jackson won his sole Coach of the Year Award in 1995-96 when Jordan made a triumphant return from retirement and helped kick off the Bulls second three-peat of the decade. They barely missed a beat as the two began dominating the league once again.</p>
<p>There is no question that Jackson and Jordan are a historic duo. In fact, some may argue they are the best to ever do it.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Cleveland Cavaliers </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366847" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1264,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F452122513.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1264" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/452122513.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/452122513-768x607.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Cleveland Cavaliers history: Lenny Wilkins & Mark Price</h2>
<p>I came very close to including Tyronn Lue on this list. His leadership was crucial to helping the Cleveland Cavaliers win their only championship in 2016, but it never felt as if he had a special connection or mentorship with LeBron James or Kyrie Irving.</p>
<p>Instead, we will honor the duo of Lenny Wilkins and Mark Price. This pairing made all the sense in the world at the time as Wilkins was a nine-time All-Star and Hall-of-Fame caliber point guard during his playing career. His experience proved to be helpful in the development of Price’s game.</p>
<div class="embed ">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Coach Lenny Wilkins, HOF player and coach, believed in me & taught me so much in Cleveland! Thankful for him! <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalCoachesDay?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%22>#NationalCoachesDay</a> <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://twitter.com/cavs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%22>@cavs <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://t.co/yfYXWOoZMJ">pic.twitter.com/yfYXWOoZMJ
<p>— Mark Price (@Mark25Price) <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://twitter.com/Mark25Price/status/916512214584094720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%22>October 7, 2017</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>Learning from Wilkins, Price managed to reach four All-NBA teams as one of the best pure shooters in league history. He averaged 18.4 points and 8.4 assists per game on nearly 50/40/90 shooting from the field over five seasons with the Cavaliers.</p>
<p>Price is easily one of the more underrated players the league has seen. A skilled playmaker that could score at an efficient rate was rare at the time and his shooting set him apart from the rest of his competition. He can be described as a prototype Stephen Curry, truly ahead of his time as a shooter.</p>
<p>Wilkins was named the Coach of the Month a total of three times with Cleveland and led the team to three 50+ win seasons. Had they not run into the great Michael Jordan, the Cavaliers may have seen more success in the NBA Playoffs.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Dallas Mavericks </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366848" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2176,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F115563520.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2176" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/115563520.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/115563520-768x522.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo credit should read ROBYN BECK/AFP/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Dallas Mavericks history: Rick Carlisle & Dirk Nowitzki</h2>
<p>The best player in franchise history matched with their most effective coach, Dirk Nowitzki and Rick Carlisle have a special relationship.</p>
<p>Taking a job with the Dallas Mavericks in 2008, Carlisle joined a Dallas Mavericks team that was struggling to get over the hump. Though Nowitzki was already an established superstar and MVP winner, he had failed to have success in the postseason.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe width="500" height="281" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/iwZXZcyr460?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>Carlisle acted as Nowitzki’s coach for 11 seasons. During this time, Dirk was selected to seven All-Star games and four All-NBA teams. He revolutionized the game as a big-man with range, killing opponents with his patented one-legged fadeaway.</p>
<p>In 2011, the Mavericks embarked on an all-time great postseason runs. Knocking off Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas braced for a showdown with the NBA’s first superteam. The league stood in fear as LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh barreled their way through the Eastern Conference.</p>
<p>Few people gave the Mavs a chance of winning the series. It appeared that Miami simply had too much star power. However, Carlisle had a beautiful strategy ready to be set in place by Dirk’s unbelievable performances.</p>
<p>Coming in to the 2011 NBA Finals as massive underdogs, the Mavericks prevailed in six games. Nowitzki averaged 26.0 points and 9.7 rebounds per game and hit nearly every clutch shot possible to help lift his team over the Heat.</p>
<p>Carlisle and Dirk had plenty of successful seasons together. Recording a winning season in eight of their 11 year’s together as well as four 50+ win seasons, the Mavericks held a place as one of the best teams in the Western Conference for an entire decade.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Denver Nuggets </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366850" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1055,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F161018222.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1055" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/161018222.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/161018222-768x506.jpeg 768w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/161018222-850x560.jpeg 850w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Photo By Cyrus McCrimmon/The Denver Post via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Denver Nuggets history: George Karl & Carmelo Anthony</h2>
<p>Though his current reputation has taken a significant hit, Carmelo Anthony was at one time, a basketball prodigy. The NCAA champion helped lead the Denver Nuggets to the NBA Playoffs as he rivaled LeBron James for the Rookie of the Year Award.</p>
<p>It was clear that Anthony had talent, but it wasn’t until George Karl become the head coach that he truly took the next step in his development. Karl utilized Carmelo’s skill-set to it’s biggest advantage, allowing Melo to be Melo.</p>
<p>The Nuggets finished top-two in their division each season with Melo and Karl, totaling three 50-win seasons.</p>
<p>Melo bloomed into a four-time All-Star and averaged 25.4 points and 6.2 rebounds per game in his six seasons with Karl.</p>
<p>Challenging Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2009 Western Conference Finals, this duo came excruciatingly close to reaching the NBA Finals. Though Anthony put up nearly 30 points per game, his Nuggets lost the series in six games.</p>
<p>By the time they parted ways in the 2010-11 season, Karl had won multiple Coach of the Month Awards and Melo was a borderline MVP candidate. It’s a shame they never managed to win a championship together, but they sure made a great duo.</p>
<p>As we look back at Anthony’s career, this stretch was perhaps his most impressive. Unfortunately, Anthony’s career didn’t go as we all thought it would. Still, it would be an absolute shock if he didn’t reach the Hall of Fame.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Detroit Pistons </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366852" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2160,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F136095369.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2160" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/136095369.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/136095369-768x518.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Detroit Pistons history: Chuck Daly & Isiah Thomas</h2>
<p>The Bad Boy Detroit Pistons are a mythical team. Their reputation for a hard knock style of basketball has made them one of the most memorable squads in league history.</p>
<p>Running the show was Hall of Fame point guard, Isiah Thomas. One of the first players to become an elite ball-handler, Thomas displayed a machine gun brand of dribbling that left defenders frozen in their place.</p>
<p>Thomas reached the All-Star game in 12 of his 13 career-seasons, only failing to make the game in his final season in which he missed 24 games due to an injury. His five All-NBA selections speak for themselves as Thomas is one of the greatest guards to ever play.</p>
<p>With Isiah leading them, the Pistons became a brute force that wasn’t afraid of anybody. Their attitude left many angry and opponents bruised as they bullied their way to the top. For years, the Pistons controlled the Eastern Conference, often prevailing in showdowns with the great Michael Jordan and his Chicago Bulls.</p>
<p>Behind all of the madness on the court was coach Chuck Daly. For nine seasons, Daly led the Pistons to success. Sporting a winning season in all nine years and winning two NBA championships, its safe to say that Thomas and Daly worked very well as a duo.</p>
<p>While Daly never won a Coach of the Year Award, he was named one of the <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.nba.com/history/nba-at-50/top-10-coaches" target="_blank" rel="noopener">top 10 greatest coaches in NBA history</a> during the 1996-97 season. As for Thomas, he joined a similar list, earning a mention as one of the top<a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.nba.com/history/nba-at-50/top-50-players" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> 50 greatest players in league history.</a></p>
<p>Thomas left it all out on the court. Even when he twisted his ankle in the 1988 NBA Finals, he remained in the game to score an NBA Finals record 25 points in a single quarter. It is this heart and willingness to win that made the Pistons two-time champions.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Golden State Warriors </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366854" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1126,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F694327098.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1126" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/694327098.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/694327098-768x540.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Golden State Warriors history: Steve Kerr & Stephen Curry</h2>
<p>There is no other duo that could have made this list for the Golden State Warriors. Steve Kerr and Stephen Curry have combined to have an impact that has changed the game of basketball forever.</p>
<p>When the Warriors elected to fire Mark Jackson in 2014, many fans were baffled. Jackson had helped to turn the Dubs into one of the most promising young teams in the league. Still, the front office felt as if Kerr would be a better fit for the team.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe width="500" height="281" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/VaZUIgtAay4?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>It didn’t take long for the front office to feel justified in their decision. Kerr immediately unlocked the Warriors full potential, allowing Curry to become a league MVP and take the franchise to five consecutive NBA Finals.</p>
<p>Had it not been for Kerr allowing Curry to ramp up his usage rate, we may have never seen what he was capable of. Posting a career-high usage rate in 2016, Curry became the first player to average 30+ points on 50/40/90 shooting from the field as he was voted the unanimous MVP.</p>
<p>Winning an NBA record 73 games in 2016, Kerr’s system never looked better. Had they not run into LeBron James and Kyrie Irving in the NBA Finals, they may have completed the greatest season in NBA history.</p>
<p>Regardless, the Dubs bounced back even stronger next year. With the addition of Kevin Durant, many wondered how the Warriors would manage to play all of these star players together. Of course, Kerr’s system would prove to work perfectly for this new team as well.</p>
<p>Curry and Durant coexisted without any error. The team dominated in the 2016-17 season, losing only one game in the playoffs on their way to a championship. In the next season, they once again powered their way to the top, capturing back-to-back titles.</p>
<p>In the last five seasons, the Warriors have established themselves as an all-time great dynasty. Five consecutive trips to the NBA Finals and three championships speak for themselves. None of this would exist if it wasn’t for Kerr and his willingness to let Curry’s skill set dominate the offense.</p>
<p>This upcoming season will truly test the Dubs. With Durant gone and Klay Thompson suffering from a torn ACL, it will take some basketball brilliance from Kerr and Curry to keep the Dubs competing for a championship.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Houston Rockets </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366855" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1066,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F99546239.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1066" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/99546239.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/99546239-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Photo by Glenn James/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Houston Rockets history: Rudy Tomjonavich & Hakeeem Olajuwon</h2>
<p>When Michael Jordan suddenly announced his retirement from the NBA after the 1992-93 season, a window was opened up for the rest of the league. The Chicago Bulls had dominated for three straight seasons. Without Jordan to block the road, other NBA teams had a chance to finally win a title.</p>
<p>Ready to take full advantage of this opportunity were the Houston Rockets. With a prime Hakeem Olajuwon and a second-year head coach in Rudy Tomjonavich, the Rockets set their aims high. In the 1993-94 season, Olajuwon won the MVP Award by posting 27.3 points, 11.9 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game.</p>
<p>Battling the New York Knicks in a seven-game series, the Rockets emerged victorious in 1994 with their first championship in franchise history. The entire team rallied together to accomplish this feat, but they weren’t finished yet.</p>
<p>Behind 32.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 2.0 steals and 2.0 blocks per game in the 1995 NBA Finals, Olajuwon bested Shaquille O’Neal and delivered on back-to-back titles for Houston. Houston became the first sixth-seed to win a title while Olajuwon won the Finals MVP in both years.</p>
<p>Tomjonavich played a pivotal role in helping this group of underdogs earn the name of “Clutch City”. His guidance and leadership kept them on top despite being counted out multiple times. The Rockets never gave up and as a result, they won back-to-back titles.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Indiana Pacers </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-369711" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2132,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2019%2F09%2F1146848489.jpeg" alt="NBA" width="3200" height="2132" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2019/09/1146848489.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2019/09/1146848489-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Indiana Pacers history: Larry Bird & Reggie Miller</h2>
<p>Though Larry Bird’s coaching career never came close to being as memorable as his time playing for the Boston Celtics, he still had his moments with the Indiana Pacers.</p>
<p>Learning from one of the greatest shooters in league history, Reggie Miller blossomed into a great shooter in his own right. By the end of his career, Miller would become the league’s all-time leader in career 3-pointers, only to be passed by Ray Allen.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe width="500" height="281" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/rmme_HV1ccY?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>Bird and Miller only spent three seasons together. In this time, they reached back-to-back Conference Finals and peaked in the NBA Finals. In the 2000 NBA Playoffs, Miller averaged 24.0 points per game as the Pacers fell just two games short of winning the championship.</p>
<p>Each season ended in disappointment, but this was easily the most successful three-season stretch in Pacers history. They finished with an overall 147-67 regular-season record and a 52-32 record in the postseason.</p>
<p>In his first season as head coach, Bird won the NBA’s Coach of the Year Award. Ending his coaching career only two years later, Bird and Miller came bitterly close to capturing a championship together.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> LA Clippers </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366857" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F671315524.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/671315524.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/671315524-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in LA Clippers history: Doc Rivers & Chris Paul</h2>
<p>For most of their existence, the LA Clippers have been the laughing stock of the NBA. Making the playoffs only once from 2000-2010, the Clippers were desperate to land a star.</p>
<p>With a little bit of luck and solid drafting, the Clippers acquired both Blake Griffin and Chris Paul. Shortly after the birth of this dynamic duo on the court, Doc Rivers joined the team as head coach to lead the new era of Clippers basketball.</p>
<p>Rivers delivered a championship pedigree that the franchise had never seen before. His coaching style helped bring out the best in his team while Paul acted as an extension of Doc on the court.</p>
<p>Together, this duo initiated the most successful run in Clippers history.</p>
<p>The Clippers recorded three straight 50-win seasons with Rivers and came excruciatingly close to reaching the Conference Finals in 2015 after knocking off the defending champion San Antonio Spurs and holding a 3-1 lead over the Houston Rockets.</p>
<p>Sadly, Paul and Rivers had their story together end in disappointment. Within a few seasons, the team fell apart and was blown up. Still, they were a dominant pairing and nearly pulled off something special.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Los Angeles Lakers </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366858" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2129,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F88488793.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2129" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/88488793.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/88488793-768x511.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Los Angeles Lakers history: Phil Jackson & Kobe Bryant</h2>
<p>The Zen Master, Phil Jackson, makes his second appearance on the list as his time with Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers was too memorable to omit.</p>
<p>Jackson and Bryant grew a special connection over the years. With the help of Shaquille O’Neal, Jackson and Bryant delivered a three-peat to Los Angeles. When Shaq abruptly left the franchise following a feud with Bryant, Jackson remained to weather the storm and focus Bryant’s anger.</p>
<p>Using Jackson’s guidance, Kobe used the motivation of losing Shaq to become a legend on his own. Bryant had a phenomenal two-year stretch, winning the MVP award in 2008 by averaging 28.3 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game.</p>
<p>Even with Bryant at his peak, the Lakers were defeated by the Boston Celtics in the 2008 NBA Finals. This is when Kobe took his game to astronomical levels, reaching a point that not many players are capable of.</p>
<p>Fully obsessed with winning, Bryant focused his energy into reaching the NBA Finals again in 2009. This time, nothing would stop him as he averaged 32.4 points and 7.4 assists per game to beat the Orlando Magic in five for the title.</p>
<p>The Lakers weren’t done yet. Reaching the Finals for a third season in a row, the Lakers had a chance to redeem themselves against the Celtics in 2010. Through six games, it was a stalemate. Heading into Game 7, the Lakers knew they needed to get dirty if they wanted to walk away victorious.</p>
<p>Neither team shot the ball well in Game 7. Boston shot 40.8 percent from the field while the Lakers connected on just 32.5 percent of their attempts. However, the difference was, the Lakers dominated the boards.</p>
<p>Pau Gasol led everyone with a game-high 18 rebounds while Bryant hauled in 15 of his own. LA beat Boston 53-40 on the rebounds and prevailed in a tight Game 7 for the ages. Bryant once again won the Finals MVP award.</p>
<p>This stretch proved that Bryant was more than a sidekick and deserves his spot on the all-time greats list. As for Jackson, his 13th career championship solidified him as the most successful coach in NBA history.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Memphis Grizzlies </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366859" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2731,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F461540550.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2731" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/461540550.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/461540550-768x655.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Memphis Grizzlies history: Lionel Hollins & Marc Gasol</h2>
<p>The Grit-and-Grind era of Memphis Grizzlies basketball was a special one. Headlined by the strength of Lionel Hollins coaching and Marc Gasol’s versatility, this team is one of the most underrated of the century.</p>
<p>No one will remember that for a three-year stretch, the Grizzlies were acting as roadblock for many of the great Western Conference teams. They defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder with Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and James Harden as well as the Lob City LA Clippers and a prime San Antonio Spurs team.</p>
<p>During this time, Gasol earned an All-NBA selection and won the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2013. In his lone All-Star season, the all-around great coaching from Hollins helped this underdog team overachieve and compete with elite franchises.</p>
<p>The Grizzleis were far from being the most talented team in the West this decade. Still, behind solid coaching and Gasol’s willingness to buy into the system, the Grizzlies were one of the most successful squads every year.</p>
<p>Hollins never won a Coach of the Year Award, but he was named Coach of the month four times with the Grizzlies. Had it not been for the system he set in place, the Grizzlies may have never reached the Western Conference Finals in 2013.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Miami Heat </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-309266" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1175,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2017%2F07%2F170510769.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1175" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/170510769.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2017/07/170510769-768x564.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Joe Cavaretta/Sun Sentinel/MCT via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Miami Heat history: Erik Spoelstra & LeBron James</h2>
<p>Not many coaches have been able to stand with LeBron James and demand respect. Behind a little help from Pat Riley, Erik Spoelstra is easily the greatest coach that James has ever played under.</p>
<p>Spoelstra never once backed down from the challenge of coaching James. Coaching the greatest player of all-time is an honor, but it comes with plenty of pressure. Add the fact that James had just lit the league on fire by leaving the Cleveland Cavaliers and forming the league’s first superteam in Miami and Spoelstra had a tall task ahead of him.</p>
<p>The Miami Heat were hated by everyone. Leading the charge was James, who had become the nation’s most hated athlete. Managing this felt impossible as the tsunami of hatred flooded in every game the Heat played in.</p>
<p>Things hit an all-time low for James and the Heat when they lost the 2011 NBA Finals. After being up 2-1 and holding a massive advantage in terms of star power, the Heat dropped three straight games and lost the series. James finished with a pitiful average of 17.8 points per game.</p>
<p>Heading into the 2011-12 season, the Heat needed something to happen. If they failed to win again, the damage to each players reputation would be irreversible. As we all know, James responded to this adversity with some of his greatest performances.</p>
<p>Down 3-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals, James posted 45 points and 15 rebounds to force a game 7. The Heat would go on to advance to the NBA Finals and win the title with James capturing the Finals MVP.</p>
<p>Next season, James had perhaps his best season. Falling one vote short of being the league’s first unanimous MVP and nearly winning the Defensive Player of the Year Award, James led the Heat to 66 wins and another title.</p>
<p>The task of putting all of this talent together was unheard of. Superteams have been made before, but never at this magnitude. Standing in the fire was Spoelstra, in charge of managing the egos of three superstars all in their prime.</p>
<p>Facing this enormous challenge, Spoelstra did more than succeed. Helping James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh find comfortable roles, as well as integrating a number of different veteran players, the Heat reached the NBA Finals four consecutive times and won two championships.</p>
<p>To this day, no other coach has managed the egos of three superstars better than Spoelstra (outside of Steve Kerr). Still coaching the Heat to this day, Spoelstra has been in the discussion for Coach of the Year multiple times since James’ departure from the franchise.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Milwaukee Bucks </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366942" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2161,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F52547617.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2161" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/52547617.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/52547617-768x519.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Focus on Sport via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Milwaukee Bucks history: Larry Costello & Kareem Abdul-Jabbar</h2>
<p>Kareem Adbul-Jabbar was a star from the moment he entered the league. Playing his first six seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, Kareem accomplished enough during this stretch to go down as one of the all-time greats.</p>
<p>As a rookie, KAJ averaged 28.8 points and 14.5 rebounds per game. Reaching the All-Star game each season with the Bucks, he and Larry Costello built a special bond. As this was Costello’s first coaching job, the two had a chance to grow together.</p>
<p>By their third season, the duo had led the Bucks all the way to the NBA Finals. Jabbar averaged an insane 33.7 points and 17.5 rebounds per game as Milwaukee took down Wilt Chamberlain and the Los Angeles Lakers.</p>
<p>A few years later, the two reached the NBA Finals once again. This time, they were stifled by the Boston Celtics. Still, taking this expansion team to two NBA Finals in a matter of five seasons is an impressive feat.</p>
<p>KAJ made his departure from the franchise only one year later. Going on to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and a top 10 player ever, Jabbar made his impact felt on the league. As for Costello, he finished his coaching career with a respectable 430-300 overall record.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Minnesota Timberwolves </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366861" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2129,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F51876514.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2129" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/51876514.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/51876514-768x511.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo By David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Minnesota Timberwolves history: Flip Saunders & Kevin Garnett</h2>
<p>The late and great Flip Saunders played a pivotal role in leading Kevin Garnett to become the passionate player we know today. Both beginning their careers in the 1995-96 season, Garnett and Saunders grew together.</p>
<p>By their second season, Saunders and Garnett lifted the Minnesota Timberwolves to their first appearance in the NBA Playoffs since moving to Minnesota. They would continue to reach the postseason in the next seven-seasons, peaking in 2004 by going all the way to the Western Conference Finals.</p>
<div class="embed embed-video"><iframe width="500" height="281" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.youtube.com/embed/Xh1E6_mQ_JE?feature=oembed%22 frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<p>During this season, the team won a franchise-record 58 wins while Garnett won the MVP award for averaging 24.2 points, 13.9 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 2.2 blocks per game. An absolute force of nature, Garnett nearly took this team of underdogs to the NBA Finals.</p>
<p>Saunders finished his coaching career with 10 Coach of the Month awards and an overall coaching record of 654 and 592. As for Garnett, he won the 2008 Defensive Player of the Year and an NBA championship with the Boston Celtics.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> New Orleans Pelicans </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366862" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1067,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F84424460.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1067" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/84424460.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/84424460-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in New Orleans Pelicans history: Byron Scott & Chris Paul</h2>
<p>Chris Paul once again finds himself on our list. This time, it was the coach that helped Paul get his career started, Byron Scott with the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans).</p>
<p>A legend in his own right, Scott played alongside Magic Johnson as the Los Angeles Lakers dominated the 1980s. Taking his shot as a head coach, Scott was blessed with the opportunity to develop Paul’s game.</p>
<p>Though people may have forgotten by now, CP3 was at one time, a franchise-changing talent. By his third year in the NBA, Paul was an All-Star averaging 21.1 points, 11.6 assists and 2.7 steals per game.</p>
<p>Coaching Paul through every step of the way was Scott, who used his knowledge of the game to polish Paul’s superb playmaking. As Paul earned his first All-NBA selection, Scott was winning the Coach of the Year Award.</p>
<p>The duo would split up only a few years later, but the impact they had on each other carried on to the rest of their career’s. Paul went on to become an eight-time All-NBA member while Scott helped develop another star guard in Kyrie Irving.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> New York Knicks </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366863" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2107,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F818431458.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2107" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/818431458.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/818431458-768x506.jpeg 768w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/818431458-850x560.jpeg 850w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in New York Knicks history: Pat Riley & Patrick Ewing</h2>
<p>Pat Riley has a long history of coaching dynasties. Most known for his time with the Showtime Los Angeles Lakers, Riley took on a new challenge when he accepted the job to coach Patrick Ewing and the New York Knicks.</p>
<p>Riley joined the Knicks long after Ewing had become an All-Star. Reaching five All-Star games before the 1991 season, Ewing didn’t need Riley to develop his game. However, he did need Riley to win. This is exactly what Riley planned on doing.</p>
<p>In the six seasons, before Riley became coach, the Knicks faced nothing but failure in the playoffs. Ewing was eliminated in the first round twice and missed the postseason altogether two times. This was deemed unacceptable by Riley.</p>
<p>Together, Ewing and Riley took the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals in their second attempt. By their third season, they were in the NBA Finals, only to fall one game short of beating the Houston Rockets.</p>
<p>Riley would make his departure from the team only one year later. This didn’t stop him from capturing one of his three Coach of the Year Awards, while Ewing went on to finish his Hall-of-Fame career.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Oklahoma City Thunder </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366864" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2130,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F461067698.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2130" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/461067698.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/461067698-768x511.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in OKC Thunder history: Scott Brooks & Kevin Duran</h2>
<p>It would be a tall task to find a more successful coach/player pairing in the history of the Oklahoma City Thunder. it’s unfortunate how Kevin Durant’s time in OKC came to an end, but he accomplished some great feats with Scott Brooks there to help him along the way.</p>
<p>Joining the franchise in 2007, Brooks was there for Durant’s rookie campaign. Under Brook’s wing, Durant thrived as a pure scorer and won the Rookie of the Year Award. It would only take one more season for KD to explode into the superstar we know today.</p>
<p>From his very first All-Star season, Durant went on a seven-season run for the record books. Averaging 28.9 points on nearly 50 percent shooting across this time, Durant racked up a number of accolades and lifted the Thunder to their first and only NBA Finals appearance.</p>
<p>Brooks captured the Coach of the Year Award in 2010 and continued to be recognized as one of the league’s brightest basketball minds during his time with OKC. After he was fired following the 2014-15 season, Durant made his departure from the franchise one year later.</p>
<p>The Thunder are one of the great “what if” teams in league history. Once with James Harden, Russel Westbrook and Durant all on the same roster, the Thunder somehow managed to lose all three of these superstars without capturing a single championship.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Orlando Magic </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366865" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2337,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F137661264.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2337" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/137661264.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/137661264-768x561.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Jim Rogash/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Orlando Magic history: Stan Van Gundy & Dwight Howard</h2>
<p>Stan Van Gundy and Dwight Howard had an explosive ending to their partnership. Regardless, these two went on one of the most underrated runs of all-time.</p>
<p>Prime Howard was a different beast. Averaging 20.6 points, 13.9 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game in the five seasons he played under Van Gundy, Howard became a three-time Defensive Player of the Year.</p>
<p>These two accomplished their most memorable feat in the 2008-09 season when the Orlando Magic reached the NBA Finals for the second time in franchise history. Knocking off the reigning champion Boston Celtics as well as the LeBron James led Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando was only stopped due to a red-hot Los Angeles Lakers team who had Kobe Bryant at the peak of his powers.</p>
<p>With the Magic, Van Gundy had four straight seasons of 50+ wins. He notched four Coach of the Month Awards and was widely regarded as one of the NBA’s best basketball minds. Had it not been for some health and personality issues with Howard, this duo could have dominated for quite some time.</p>
<p>Looking at where Dwight is now, many wish his time in Orlando didn’t end so abruptly. Injuries and a poor mentality truly derailed the career of a potentially all-time great center.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Philadelphia 76ers </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366866" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1383,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F51603153.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1383" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/51603153.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/51603153-768x664.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Photo credit should read MIKE NELSON/AFP/Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Philadelphia 76ers history: Larry Brown & Allen Iverson</h2>
<p>Allen Iverson is one of the most prolific players the league has ever seen. Unforgivably himself, Iverson revolutionized the game with his style on and off of the court.</p>
<p>No one handled the ball like Iverson. An undersized guard who averaged 30+ points in back-to-back seasons was unheard of in the modern NBA. The style and flare he brought to the game was unique and had kids everywhere dreaming to replicate his moves.</p>
<p>While his game-changing style rubbed many the wrong way, his coach, Larry Brown, was there to support him. Well, support is an interesting word to use. Brown was very much a polar opposite to Iverson. An old-fashioned, true to the game coach, Brown bumped heads with Iverson more than a few times.</p>
<p>Even with their differences, Iverson and Brown managed to work together when it mattered most. Their results on the court are a direct result of their willingness to accept each other, a 56 win season in 2000-01 was their peak.</p>
<p>In this season, Iverson averaged 31.1 points per game en route to winning the MVP award. Over the next five seasons, Iverson would average 30+ points per game three more times. His handles changed the game and made him unstoppable.</p>
<p>Though the two did manage to reach the NBA Finals together, their relationship was cut short due to their inability to coexist after six-seasons. Iverson has since <a href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://www.nbcsports.com/philadelphia/philadelphia-sixers/allen-iverson-wishes-he-would-have-bought-larry-brown-earlier">looked back at this and expressed regret</a> for not listening to his coach.</p>
<p>For better or worse, Brown and Iverson go down as the most memorable coach/player duo in Philadelphia 76ers history.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Phoenix Suns </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366867" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2125,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F78881220.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2125" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/78881220.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/78881220-768x510.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Phoenix Suns history: Mike D’Antoni & Steve Nash</h2>
<p>The duo that could be credited for popularizing space-and-pace, Mike D’Antoni and Steve Nash were ahead of their time.</p>
<p>The Phoenix Suns were a fun team to watch during the mid-2000s. Behind a run-and-gun style of basketball, Nash became a two-time MVP and led the league in assists four times. The Suns ranked towards the top of the league in pace each season as D’Antoni’s experiment continued to pay off.</p>
<p>D’Antoni wasn’t the first coach to attempt this, but he was the most successful (up to this point). Phoenix had two 60+ win seasons as well as two 50+ win seasons under D’Antoni and Nash. D’Antoni won multiple Coach of the Month Awards and was named the 2005 NBA Coach of the Year.</p>
<p>Of course, D’Antoni went on to polish this system with the Houston Rockets. Placing James Harden in a similar position to Nash, but giving Harden full control of the offense, the Rockets won 65 games in 2018 as Harden won the MVP.</p>
<p>It’s clear that Nash and D’Antoni set the blueprint for how modern-day basketball is often played. Without this mad scientist experiment in Phoenix, the NBA may look wildly different right now.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Portland Trail Blazers </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366869" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2087,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F2823292.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2087" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/2823292.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/2823292-768x501.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by NBA Photos/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Portland Trail Blazers history: Jack Ramsay & Bill Walton</h2>
<p>Bill Walton has proven to be one of the most unique personalities the NBA has ever seen. Finding success now as a commentator, people forget that Walton once played a Hall-of-Fame level career under Jack Ramsay.</p>
<p>Spending four seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, Walton averaged 17.1 points, 13.5 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game. Despite these incredible numbers, the Blazers failed to reach the playoffs in Walton’s first two seasons.</p>
<p>Everything changed once Ramsay took over as head coach. Pushing the team to their highest points, Ramsay led the Blazers to an NBA championship in his first season. Walton was named the Finals MVP for his historic 18.5 points and 19.0 rebounds a game.</p>
<p>Their run together ended only one year later as Walton switched teams. Both Ramsay and Walton would be honored for their respective carers in 1997 as Ramsay was named a top 10 coach in league history while Walton was crowned a top 50 player of all-time.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Sacramento Kings </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366870" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2116,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F527710.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2116" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/527710.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/527710-768x508.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">Mandatory Credit: Rocky Widner /NBAE/Getty Images</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Sacramento Kings history: Rick Adelman & Chris Webber</h2>
<p>The NCAA basketball legend and leader of the Fab Five, Chris Webber, was still waiting to make an impact on the league when he arrived in Sacramento. Only reaching one All-Star game in his first six seasons, Webber knew he had more to prove.</p>
<p>Joining the Sacramento Kings in the 1998-99 NBA season, Webber averaged 20.0 points and 13.0 rebounds per game in just 42 games played. This was enough for him to earn his first All-NBA selection. This was only the beginning for Webber, who would continue to thrive under Adelman.</p>
<p>The next five-years were very successful for both Adelman and Webber. The Kings won a franchise-record 61 games in the 2001-02 season, falling jus tone game short of reaching the NBA finals. In total, Webber notched four All-Star appearances and four All-NBA selections during this time.</p>
<p>Overall, Adelman posted a solid 395-229 record during his time in Sacramento. He won many Coach of the Month awards and is likely to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Perhaps if Adelman and Webber spent more time together, they could have accomplished more.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> San Antonio Spurs </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366871" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_1065,w_1600/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F450688102.jpeg" alt="" width="1600" height="1065" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/450688102.jpeg 1600w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/450688102-768x511.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:1600px;">(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in San Antonio Spurs history: Gregg Popovich & Tim Duncan</h2>
<p>It doesn’t get any better than this. Tim Duncan and Gregg Popovich are without a doubt the most iconic coach/player duo the NBA has to offer.</p>
<p>Duncan’s career speaks for itself. A 15-time All-NBA member, five-time NBA champion and the greatest power forward of all-time, Duncan left his mark on the league. Meanwhile, Popovich was riding right by his side, coaching the San Antonio Spurs to nearly two decades of dominance.</p>
<p>The Spurs saw many roster changes throughout their dynasty. Beginning with David Robinson, transitioning to Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili and finishing with Kawhi Leonard, two things remained the same across each championship team. Popovich and Duncan were behind each victory.</p>
<p>No other duo has seen as much success as these two. It didn’t matter what was thrown at them, Pop and Duncan found a way to overcome each obstacle. In their 19 seasons together, they never missed the postseason once.</p>
<p>Pop stands as one of just two coaches to ever win the Coach of the Year award three times. His career as a coach will certainly land him in the basketball Hall-of-Fame as his legacy will forever be remembered.</p>
<p>The same goes for Duncan. It is only a matter of time before his name is etched into the basketball Hall of Fame as his jersey has already been retired by the Spurs organization. His prolonged success in the league should be the standard for all incoming superstars looking to have a legendary career.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Toronto Raptors </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-354717" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2400,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F1147877351.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2400" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1147877351.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/1147877351-768x576.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Atlanta Hawks history: Nick Nurse & Kawhi Leonard</h2>
<p>Yes, despite playing only one season together, Kawhi Leonard and Nick Nurse are the greatest coach/player duo in Toronto Raptors history.</p>
<p>Of course, we have to give credit to Dwane Casey and the system he built with Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan. Without these three, Toronto basketball wouldn’t have been in a position to trade for Leonard and dominate as they did.</p>
<p>However, at the end of the day, championships are what get you on this list. Both entering their first year in Toronto, Nurse and Leonard conducted a season that will never be forgotten. After half-a-decade of disappointment in the playoffs, Leonard finally delivered the title the Raptors fans have been begging for.</p>
<p>A historic run in which Leonard averaged 30.5 points and 9.1 rebounds per game resulted in the Raptors knocking off the Golden State Warriors in six games. Had it not been for some great coaching by Nurse to neutralize Stephen Curry the Raptors may have not won the trophy.</p>
<p>While the Warriors were playing at the disadvantage of multiple key players being injured, Nurse’s game plan put the final nail in the coffin for Golden State. Taking the risk to initiate a box-and-one defense to trap Curry, the Warriors had no option but to rely on players such as Quinn Cook to lead their offense. Of course, this resulted in a victory for the Raptors.</p>
<p>It’s a shame that the 2018-19 NBA season will be the only one we see of Leonard and Nurse, as Kawhi has taken his talents to the LA Clippers. Regardless, both are set for successful futures.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Utah Jazz </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366872" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2133,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F91008562.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2133" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/91008562.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/91008562-768x512.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(Photo by Gary Dineen/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Utah Jazz history: Jerry Sloan & John Stockton</h2>
<p>One of the most underrated point guards to ever play, John Stockton holds many places in the NBA record book. As the league’s all-time leader in both steals and assists, Stockton had a fantastic career.</p>
<p>Longevity is the name of the game with Stockton. Not many players are capable of playing at a high level, fewer can do it for a sustained amount of time. For Stockton, nearly 20 years of excellence were spent playing for the Utah Jazz.</p>
<p>Much of this can be credited to his fantastic coach, Jerry Sloan. A two-time All-Star and six-time All-Defensive member in his day, Sloan helped Stockton tap into his full defensive potential and ultimately become the all-time leader in steals.</p>
<p>Stockton spent all but his rookie year next to Sloan. Together, the duo reached two NBA Finals and nearly dethroned the great Michael Jordan and his Chicago Bulls. A forever memorable game-winning shot to bring the Jazz to the 1998 NBA Finals will go down as Stockton’s best career-play and perhaps the greatest moment in Utah Jazz history.</p>
<div class="next-slide slider"> <a class="next-slide-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-slide-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"#"> <span class="title">Next:</span> Washington Wizards </a>
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<img class="size-full wp-image-366873" src=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/fetch/c_fill,g_auto,f_auto,h_2713,w_3200/http%3A%2F%2Fhoopshabit.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2Fgetty-images%2F2018%2F08%2F2481435.jpeg" alt="" width="3200" height="2713" srcset="https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/2481435.jpeg 3200w, https://hoopshabit.com/wp-content/uploads/getty-images/2018/08/2481435-768x651.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 3200px) 100vw, 3200px"><div class="fs-center-img">
<p class="wp-caption-text" style="width:3200px;">(NBA Photos/NBAE via Getty Images)</p>
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<h2>Best coach/player pairing in Washington Wizards history: Dick Motta & Elvin Hayes</h2>
<p>Elvin Hayes enjoyed the prime of his Hall-of-Fame career playing under Dick Motta for the Washington Bullets. These two partnered up from 1976-1980 and had a dominant run together.</p>
<p>Motta had already proven himself by the time he joined the Bullets. The 1971 Coach of the Year had many winning seasons under his belt but had yet to capture an NBA championship. Joining the Bullets was an easy way for Motta to put himself in a great position to win alongside some legendary players.</p>
<p>As for Hayes, he wasted no time bursting onto the NBA scene as an elite talent. Averaging 28.4 points and 17.1 rebounds as a rookie, Hayes was already a five-time All-Star when he reached Washington.</p>
<p>Together, this duo helped each other get over the hump. In the 1977-78 NBA season, the Bullets defeated the Seattle Supersonics and won the championship. While Wes Unseld was crowned the Finals MVP, Hayes led the team in points, rebounds steals and blocks to lift the Bullets to the title.</p>
<div class="fs-shortcode" data-type="StoryLink" data-theme="dark" data-text="Best theoretical NBA Jam duo from each NBA team" data-url="https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/09/teams-best-nba-jam-duo-time/" data-call-to-action="Next"> <div class="story-link-next"> <a class="story-link-next-btn" style="background:#bb2c32" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="story-link-next-shortcode" href=https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/16/nba-best-player-coach-pairing-teams-history/"https://hoopshabit.com/2019/09/09/teams-best-nba-jam-duo-time/"> <span class="call_to_action">Next:</span> Best theoretical NBA Jam duo from each NBA team </a> </div>
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<p>Looking back, it’s peculiar that Hayes didn’t win the Finals MVP award. Regardless, the Bullets pulled off an incredible feat and delivered on an NBA championship. Hayes put up big-time numbers and solidified himself as an all-time great.</p><!—pageview_candidate—>">