Frank Layden, the former coach who led the Utah Jazz to their first playoff appearance and won both the NBA Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year in 1984, has passed away at the age of 93. His contributions spanned across coaching and executive roles in the organization, profoundly shaping the franchise’s legacy in the NBA.

Layden took over as head coach shortly after the Jazz moved from New Orleans in the early 1980s, running the team for a significant period and ensuring multiple playoff runs. His era coincided with the development of Utah legends Karl Malone and John Stockton, whom he helped bring to the team through the draft.

“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 our fans. His love for the game was felt across the NBA, and he laid the foundation for our success.”

— Ryan and Ashley Smith, Jazz owners, in a joint statement.

Under Layden, the team reached the Western Conference semifinals three times and achieved five consecutive postseason appearances. Post his coaching stint, he transitioned to roles in management, where he continued to influence the team’s direction until 1999.

The NBA community has expressed its grief over his passing. Layden’s legacy will live on through his numerous contributions and the lasting impact he had on the Jazz and the sport.

As stated by the NBA, “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.”

Other notable aspects of his career include his beginnings as a coach in the late 1960s at Niagara University and a subsequent role as an assistant with the Atlanta Hawks. His influence extended beyond the NBA as he also coached the WNBA’s Utah Starzz.