Richie Adubato, Legendary Basketball Coach, Passes Away
The basketball world mourns the loss of Richie Adubato, a renowned coach who left an indelible mark on the NBA and WNBA. Adubato, at the age of 87, passed away on Thursday, according to his family via social media. Adubato coached iconic teams like the Dallas Mavericks, Orlando Magic, and New York Liberty, leaving a legacy of dedication and passion for the sport. “Let’s remember him as the fun, intelligent, energetic, and genuinely warm human being he always was.” During his time at the helm of the Liberty, Adubato led the team to three WNBA Finals in six seasons (1999-2004), coaching future stars like Teresa Weatherspoon and Becky Hammon. Even today, he holds the franchise record with 178 games coached and is second in wins (100).In addition to his time with the Liberty, Adubato also coached the Washington Mystics of the WNBA for more than two seasons (2005-2007). In the NBA, he was interim coach of the Magic in 1997 and radio analyst for the team from 2005 to 2020. Richie Adubato’s legacy transcends the courts, leaving a mark of warmth and humor on all who knew him. His career also includes a stint as interim coach in Detroit during the 1979-80 season and as head coach in Dallas from 1989 to 1993. Before his successful NBA career, Adubato spent 18 years coaching basketball in high schools and colleges in New Jersey. He graduated from William Paterson, where he captained the basketball and baseball teams.“With deep gratitude, we remember the legacy of Richie Adubato, who guided the Liberty to 3 WNBA Finals appearances and established a standard of excellence that still inspires our organization today.”
Statement from the New York Liberty team
