Basketball
On Thursday, NBA legend Magic Johnson honored the memory of former Utah Jazz executive and coach Frank Layden, who passed away at 93.
More than just a coach, Layden was adored throughout the league and profoundly affected everyone he encountered, including some of the biggest names in the sport. He was well-known for his contagious humor and passion for the game.
Basketball What Made Frank Layden So Special to Magic Johnson?
“I am sorry to hear about the passing of Coach Frank Layden, who coached the Utah Jazz from 1981–1989,” Johnson wrote in an emotional post on X. “Coach Layden made Utah one of the toughest teams for my Lakers to play against because of his brilliant strategies on offense and defense. Most people don’t know he also had an awesome sense of humor. I will be praying for the Layden family during this difficult time ????????”
I am sorry to hear about the passing of Coach Frank Layden who coached the Utah Jazz from 1981-1989. Coach Layden made Utah one of the toughest teams for my Lakers to play against because of his brilliant strategies on offense and defense. Most people don’t know he also had an…
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) July 10, 2025
Despite being on opposing sides in the Lakers and Jazz’s intensely competitive games in the 1980s, Johnson and Layden had a strong bond of respect for one another. In 1984, he led Utah to its first postseason berth and won NBA Coach of the Year, a testament to his skill as a tactician and the culture he was fostering in Salt Lake City.
Magic’s remarks show affection for a man who added personality, fun, and laughter to the game and admiration for a rival coach. Layden wasn’t the kind to try to micromanage every possession or yell from the sidelines. He made spectators feel like they were a part of something greater, joked during press conferences, and trusted his players.
Basketball Layden’s Culture and Influence Paved the Way in the NBA and Across Utah
Layden’s influence persisted into the 1990s, when John Stockton and Karl Malone, two players he helped develop, helped Utah rise to prominence in the Western Conference. He remained with the team as president and general manager even after he left coaching, assisting in the team’s development in the background.
He also influenced beyond the NBA by coaching the Utah Starzz of the WNBA and continuing to promote the sport at all levels. In a statement, the Jazz referred to him as a “transformational” figure for the team, the NBA, and the state of Utah.
Magic’s appreciation reminds us that basketball is about community, character, and connection rather than just competitiveness. Layden embodied all of that with his warm heart and keen mind.
Read More Sebastian Mondaca