Lenny Wilkens Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / July 18, 2024
Lenny Wilkens Then
Lenny Wilkens, born on October 28, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, grew up in the culturally rich neighborhood of Bedford–Stuyvesant.
His upbringing was influenced by his mixed heritage—his father was African American, and his mother was Irish American.
Raised in the Catholic faith, Wilkens attended Boys High School in Brooklyn, where he honed his basketball skills under the guidance of coach Mickey Fisher.
During his high school years, Wilkens not only excelled on the basketball court but also formed lasting friendships, including with future Major League Baseball star Tommy Davis, who was his teammate.
Under Fisher’s coaching, Wilkens developed a solid foundation in basketball fundamentals, laying the groundwork for a future career that would see him become one of the most respected figures in the sport.
His time at Boys High School not only shaped his athletic prowess but also instilled in him the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that would define his journey in basketball.
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Lenny Wilkens Career History
Lenny Wilkens, drafted by the St. Louis Hawks in 1960, quickly asserted himself in the NBA as a starting player.
Over his illustrious 15-year career with the Hawks, Seattle Supersonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Portland Trail Blazers, Wilkens evolved from a skilled floor general into a prolific scorer and playmaker.
His career statistics highlight his impact on the court, including 17,772 points and 7,211 assists.
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Known for his versatility and basketball IQ, Wilkens earned nine All-Star selections and ranks among the NBA’s top players in categories such as free throws made and minutes played, solidifying his place as one of the league’s elite performers.
Transitioning from player to player-coach marked another significant phase in Wilkens’ career.
He first took on this dual role with the Seattle Supersonics from 1969 to 1972, followed by a stint with the Portland Trail Blazers from 1974 to 1976.
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As a full-time coach, Wilkens left an indelible mark on several NBA franchises. He guided the Seattle Supersonics to their first and only NBA championship in the 1978-79 season.
He later coached the Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and New York Knicks, steering each team through various challenges and successes, including multiple playoff appearances.
Beyond coaching in the NBA, Wilkens also made significant contributions to basketball off the court.
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He coached the U.S. men’s basketball team to a gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, showcasing his leadership and tactical acumen on an international stage.
Wilkens’ involvement extended to the administrative side of the game, serving as vice president of the National Basketball Players Association and later as president of the NBA Coaches Association.
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His multifaceted career also included roles in team front offices and as a game analyst for basketball television broadcasts.
In recognition of his exceptional career, Wilkens was honored as one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history in 1996 and was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame both as a player in 1989 and as a coach in 1998, cementing his legacy as a true basketball icon.
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Lenny Wilkens Height
Lenny Wilkens stood at a height of 1.85 meters (6 feet 1 inch) during his career in professional basketball, known for his agility, leadership, and versatility on the court.
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Lenny Wilkens Retirement
When Lenny Wilkens retired from playing professional basketball in 1975, he left behind a legacy as one of the NBA’s premier playmakers, ranking second on the all-time assist list with 7,211 assists.
Known for his exceptional court vision and leadership, Wilkens had seamlessly combined playing and coaching roles during his final years as a player-coach with the Seattle SuperSonics and later the Portland Trail Blazers.
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His decision to transition solely into coaching marked the end of an illustrious playing career defined by his ability to orchestrate plays and elevate team performance both on and off the court.
Lenny Wilkens Wife
Since 1962, Lenny Wilkens has been married to Marilyn Reed, with whom he shares a deep and enduring partnership.
Together, they have raised three children: Leesha, Randy, and Jamee. Beyond their immediate family, the Wilkens are also blessed with seven grandchildren, comprising six granddaughters and one grandson.
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Their marriage and family life have been foundational pillars throughout Wilkens’ storied career in basketball, providing him with unwavering support and a sense of stability off the court.
Lenny Wilkens Now
Lenny Wilkens, at 86 years old, remains a revered figure in American professional basketball, celebrated for his dual career as both a player and coach.
Widely regarded as one of the game’s most accomplished playmaking guards, Wilkens left an indelible mark on the NBA through his skillful play and strategic coaching acumen.
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His career coaching record of 1,332 wins stands as the second-highest in NBA history, a testament to his longevity and success in guiding teams to victory.
Despite this impressive achievement, Wilkens also holds the record for the most losses by a coach in NBA history, totaling 1,155 defeats over his coaching career.
Beyond his contributions to basketball, Wilkens is known for his philanthropic endeavors.
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He founded the Lenny Wilkens Foundation for Children, reflecting his commitment to supporting youth and improving their lives through charitable initiatives.
This foundation underscores Wilkens’ dedication to making a positive impact off the court, leveraging his influence and resources to benefit children in need.
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Currently residing in Medina, Washington, Wilkens continues to embody his Catholic faith in both his personal and professional life.
His enduring presence in the basketball community and ongoing philanthropic efforts serve as a testament to his legacy as a leader, mentor, and humanitarian, whose influence extends far beyond the basketball arena.
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FAQs
Lenny Wilkens won an NBA championship as a head coach with the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1978-79 season.
Lenny Wilkens retired as a player in 1975. He continued his career as a coach until 2005.
Yes, Lenny Wilkens is a Hall of Famer. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame twice: first as a player in 1989 and later as a coach in 1998.
Lenny Wilkens coached several NBA teams during his coaching career, including the Seattle SuperSonics, Portland Trail Blazers, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and New York Knicks.