Former Utah Jazz coach and executive Frank Layden has died at the age of 93, reports Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune. Known for his sharp wit and warm personality, Layden played a major role in building the foundation of the Jazz franchise.
He began his NBA coaching career in 1976 as an assistant with the Hawks and became general manager of the Jazz in 1979, while the team was still in New Orleans.
Layden took over as head coach in 1981, and in 1984, he earned both NBA Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year honors after guiding Utah to its first division title.
That same year, he drafted John Stockton, followed by Karl Malone in 1985 – laying the groundwork for one of the most legendary duos in league history. He stepped down as coach in 1989, handing the team over to Jerry Sloan, who would later lead the Jazz to two NBA Finals appearances.
Layden finished with a career coaching record of 277–294 and also had a brief stint coaching the Utah Starzz in the WNBA. He remained with the Jazz in an executive role and later worked with the New York Knicks, where his son Scott Layden served as GM.
He was admired for his authenticity, as former assistant Gordon Chiesa said:
“He treated everyone the same, from a custodian to the mayor of New York City.”
Layden summed up his life approach in a 2014 quote:
“One thing I try to emphasize is it should be fun. … Each day there should be some satisfaction that you accomplished something.”
Condolences to his family and all who knew him.
Longtime Jazz Coach, GM Frank Layden Passes Away https://t.co/cEWeTjz4NP pic.twitter.com/gOu1GnxSyn
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) July 10, 2025
