Frank Layden, Former Utah Jazz Coach, Passes Away at 93

SALT LAKE CITY: Frank Layden, the former coach and general manager of the Utah Jazz, who guided the team to its inaugural playoff appearance, has died at the age of 93. His demise occurred on Wednesday.

Layden’s tenure as the Jazz’s coach spanned from 1981 to 1989. During this time, he amassed 277 victories, ranking third in the franchise’s history. In 1984, he received both the NBA Coach of the Year and NBA Executive of the Year accolades.

He held the positions of general manager and president before his retirement in the final week of 1999.

Layden’s strategic drafting decisions included selecting point guard John Stockton as the 16th pick in 1984 and power forward Karl Malone as the 13th pick in 1985. These choices established the team’s groundwork. Both athletes were essential to the Jazz’s achievements and had Hall of Fame-caliber careers.

The Jazz competed in the NBA Finals in 1997 and 1998, achieving a remarkable 20 consecutive playoff berths.

The Miller family, who owns the Jazz, expressed their sorrow over Layden’s death.

The Miller family released a statement saying, “We are saddened by the passing of Frank Layden.”

“Frank played a key role for the Utah Jazz and was a pillar in our community. We will remember his enthusiasm and drive, which helped the Jazz become a competitive team, as well as his charming sense of humor.

“Frank’s passion for sports was infectious. He was often seen at the ballpark with the Salt Lake Bees, leading the crowd in song during the 7th inning stretch. He was a close friend and great partner. Our thoughts are with Barbara, Scott, and the entire Layden family.”

Layden was appointed as the GM of the New Orleans Jazz in 1979 and remained with the organization when it relocated to Utah.

In 2019, Layden received the Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award.