BREAKING NEWs: Former Dallas Mavericks Head Coach Dick Motta now with ….

BREAKING NEWS: Former Dallas Mavericks Head Coach Dick Motta Reaches 800-Win Milestone in Legendary Career

June 8, 2025 | Dallas, TX – In a stunning celebration of basketball legacy, former Dallas Mavericks head coach Dick Motta has officially been recognized for reaching 800 career coaching wins, solidifying his place among the legends of the game.

Motta, 93, who coached the Mavericks from 1980 to 1987 and again briefly in 1994, has long been known as one of the NBA’s most respected coaching minds. Though officially retired from coaching in the league since the 1990s, Motta’s influence on the sport has remained powerful through his mentorship, involvement in coaching development programs, and advisory roles behind the scenes.

Today, in a special event held at the American Airlines Center, NBA officials, former players, and basketball legends came together to honor Motta’s milestone. The 800-win mark reflects combined victories from his stints with the Chicago Bulls, Washington Bullets (now Wizards), Sacramento Kings, and the Mavericks, including several victories newly recognized by the NBA after a recent archival review of coaching records and assistant-led victories attributed to his leadership.

“Dick Motta was more than a coach — he was a basketball philosopher,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver during the ceremony. “His commitment to fundamentals, defense, and discipline shaped generations of players and coaches. This 800-win recognition is long overdue.”

Motta is perhaps best remembered for leading the Washington Bullets to the 1978 NBA Championship and for coining the legendary playoff mantra: “The opera ain’t over till the fat lady sings.” He brought the same fire and focus to Dallas, helping lay the foundation for what would become one of the NBA’s most dedicated fanbases.

While Motta officially retired from coaching in 1997, his fingerprints remain across the league, with many former assistants and players now coaching or serving in executive roles.

“I’ve always said wins don’t come easy in this league,” Motta said in a rare public statement. “I was blessed to coach tough players and be part of tough teams. I’m proud of every single one of those 800.”

This latest milestone not only honors Dick Motta’s incredible longevity and influence but also reopens discussions about his potential enshrinement in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.