Richie Adubato Passes Away: NBA and WNBA Basketball Legend at 87 Years Old

The basketball world mourns the loss of Richie Adubato, a coach with a distinguished career in the NBA and WNBA. Adubato passed away at the age of 87, according to his family. Adubato left his mark on teams like the Dallas Mavericks, Orlando Magic, and New York Liberty, demonstrating his ability to adapt and succeed in different contexts. Let’s remember him as the fun, intelligent, energetic, and genuinely warm human being he always was. Her time in the WNBA was particularly successful, leading the New York Liberty to three finals in six seasons (1999-2004). Even today, Adubato holds the record for most games coached with 178 and is second in wins (100) in franchise history.

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

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Richie Adubato, who passed away today at the age of 87. Adubato had a coaching career that spanned four decades, including stints with the Mavericks, Magic, and Liberty. pic.twitter.com/fGz43l0X1P

— NBA History (@NBAHistory) May 17, 2024

He also coached the Washington Mystics of the WNBA for more than two seasons (2005-2007). Adubato had a stint as the Magic’s interim coach in 1997, after having been an assistant for several years. He was also the team’s radio analyst from 2005 to 2020.

Richie’s legacy lives on in every story and lesson he shared, a coach who turned the gym into a place of connection and joy, impacting countless lives with warmth, humor, and an unforgettable spirit.

Statement from the Orlando Magic team

The DeVos family and the Orlando Magic are saddened to learn of the passing of Richie Adubato. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Carol, and the entire Adubato family. pic.twitter.com/9vP009W6Vz

— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) May 17, 2024

Adubato was also interim coach in Detroit during the 1979-80 season and later coached the Mavericks from 1989 to 1993. Before his NBA career, Adubato dedicated 18 years to high school and college basketball in New Jersey. He graduated from William Paterson, where he captained the basketball and baseball teams.