Frank Layden, Utah Jazz legend, dies at 93

American basketball mourns the passing of Frank Layden, who died at the age of 93. The former coach and general manager of the Utah Jazz left an indelible mark on the franchise’s history, laying the foundation for the success that would follow in the 1980s and 1990s.

Sad to hear of the passing of the great Frank Layden, a legendary figure at ⁦@NiagaraUniv⁩ & ⁦@utahjazz⁩. A tremendous coach, a great sense of humor and a kind man. RIP, Frank pic.twitter.com/aUntvMjmFZ

— Fran Fraschilla (@franfraschilla) July 10, 2025

A Legendary Builder for the Utah Jazz

« Frank Layden had a lasting impact on the Jazz, the State of Utah, and the NBA » the franchise stated in a release. « There will never be another like him. Our thoughts are with his family as we join in mourning his loss and celebrating his life. Rest in peace, Coach. »

Born in Brooklyn in 1932, Layden began his coaching career at the high school level before leading his alma mater, Niagara University, from 1968 to 1976. He made the jump to the NBA in 1976 as Hubie Brown’s assistant with the Atlanta Hawks, before becoming general manager of the New Orleans Jazz in 1979.

Layden took the reins as head coach midway through the 1981-1982 season, after Tom Nissalke’s dismissal. Under his leadership, the Jazz reached the playoffs for the first time in their history in just his second season. With 277 wins, he remains the third-winningest coach in franchise history.

The Architect of the Stockton-Malone Era Success

Layden’s legacy extends far beyond his coaching performance. As an executive, he orchestrated the selection of two future Hall of Famers: John Stockton in 1984 and Karl Malone in 1985. These strategic choices established the foundation for the franchise’s long-term success.

In 1984, Layden achieved a rare feat by winning both NBA Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year awards, a dual distinction that demonstrates his exceptional impact. He remains the only coach in Jazz history to be named Coach of the Year.

Layden retired from coaching at the beginning of the 1988-1989 season, handing over to future Hall of Famer Jerry Sloan. He continued to serve the franchise as president and general manager, contributing to the glorious era that followed. In recognition of his contribution to basketball, he received the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.

« It’s hard to imagine the history of the Utah Jazz without Frank Layden’s presence » owners Ryan and Ashley Smith stated. « He was an extraordinary person who meant so much to this organization and our fans. »