"The NBA mourns the passing of Utah Jazz legend Frank Layden, an award-winning head coach and basketball executive. His unique sense of humor and genuine kindness made him a beloved figure around the game, including during his time as a WNBA head coach. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to Frank’s family and the Jazz organization."

Frank Layden, who coached the Utah Jazz with a colorful presence in the 1980s and was instrumental in building the team’s success in the ’90s, died at 93, the Jazz announced Wednesday. No cause of death was shared.

Frank Layden, the sharp-witted former coach who led the Utah Jazz to the playoffs for the first time, has died. He was 93.