Longtime Jazz coach, NBA legend Jerry Sloan dies at 78

Longtime Utah Jazz head coach Jerry Sloan died May 22 at his home in Salt Lake City. He was 78.

According to a report on nba.com, Sloan died of complications from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia, which he’d been fighting since 2015.

The Utah Jazz issued the following statement on the passing of the NBA legend:

“Jerry Sloan will always be synonymous with the Utah Jazz. He will forever be a part of the Utah Jazz organization and we join his family, friends and fans in mourning his loss. We are so thankful for what he accomplished here in Utah and the decades of dedication, loyalty and tenacity he brought to our franchise.

“Our Hall of Fame coach for 23 years, Jerry had a tremendous impact on the Jazz franchise as expressed by his banner hanging in the arena rafters. His 1,223 Jazz coaching wins, 20 trips to the NBA Playoffs and two NBA Finals appearances are remarkable achievements. His hard-nosed approach only made him more beloved. Even after his retirement, his presence at Jazz games always brought a roaring response from the crowd.

“Like Stockton and Malone as players, Jerry Sloan epitomized the organization. He will be greatly missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Tammy, the entire Sloan family and all who knew and loved him.”

The Miller family, which owns Jazz, also released a statement:

“It was an honor and a privilege to have one of the greatest and most respected coaches in NBA history coaching our team. We have appreciated our relationship with Jerry and acknowledge his dedication to and passion for the Utah Jazz. He has left an enduring legacy with this franchise and our family. The far-reaching impact of his life has touched our city, state and the world as well as countless players, staff and fans. We pray his family will find solace and comfort in Jerry’s life. The Miller family and Jazz organization will be proud to honor him with a permanent tribute.”

Rest easy, Coach ??

» https://t.co/5eonFoUR61 pic.twitter.com/ynrk0JnO0V

— utahjazz (@utahjazz) May 22, 2020

Sloan was head coach of the Jazz for 23 seasons, from 1988-2011, finishing his career with the third most number of wins in NBA history.

He leaves behind his wife Tammy and his children Dr. Brian Sloan (Leslie), Holly Sloan Parish (Tim), Kathy Sloan Wood (Todd), and Rhett Jessop. – RC, GMA News