Don Nelson is enjoying retirement in Hawaii — really enjoying it.
Nelson told reporters Thursday that when he isn't making money with rental properties, he's breathing in the islands' natural beauty.
Well, actually, it's more like inhaling.
Don Nelson asked what he’s been doing after basketball: “I’ve been smoking some pot.” pic.twitter.com/67cncPYzsh
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 22, 2019
Nelson and his surfer/stoner look made a rare appearance at Oracle Arena as the Warriors celebrated the 2007 "We Believe" team coached by Nelson that upset the top-seeded Mavericks in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. That group finished 42-40 in the regular season and included the likes of Stephen Jackson and Jason Richardson.
Nelson, 78, was able to bask Thursday in the success of his innovative small-ball approach, something the modern Golden State crew has perfected. The Basketball Hall of Famer praised current coach Steve Kerr for being able to implement the strategy better than he ever could.
Don Nelson asked about the origin of his small-ball coaching style: “It came about because I never had a good big man.” pic.twitter.com/npU0a1tX4W
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 22, 2019
Golden State and its so-called "Death Lineup" has helped to produce three NBA titles in four years, but Nelson said the rest of the league has caught on, which means the Warriors need to adjust. In Nelson's mind, big man DeMarcus Cousins must play a big role in the response.
MORE: Cousins voices low opinion of college ball after Williamson injury
"For the first time, they’re going to need the big boy (Cousins) in the playoffs," Nelson told the (San Jose) Mercury News earlier in the week. "Before, I thought they would always win without the dominant big guy. Now they’re going to need them in the playoffs. I think he’s going to come through."
