Richie Adubato, the veteran coach who left his fingerprints on the NBA and WNBA for four decades, died Thursday at 87, his family announced Friday.
“Let’s remember him as the funny, smart, energetic, genuinely warm human being he always was,” his daughter, Beth, wrote.
Adubato became a New York basketball staple with the Liberty from 1999-2004, steering the franchise to three WNBA Finals. He still holds the club mark for games coached (178) and ranks second in wins (100) while guiding future Hall of Famers Teresa Weatherspoon and Becky Hammon.
“With deep gratitude we remember the legacy of Richie Adubato, who guided the Liberty to three WNBA Finals appearances and set a standard of excellence that still inspires our organization today,” the Liberty said in a statement on X. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to Richie’s loved ones during this time.”
His NBA path included interim head coaching stints with the Detroit Pistons (1979-80) and Orlando Magic (1997) and a four-year run as head coach of the Dallas Mavericks (1989-93). He later moved to the Magic radio booth from 2005 to 2020.
“The DeVos family and the Orlando Magic are saddened to learn of the passing of Richie Adubato,” the team said in a statement, adding: “Richie’s legacy lives on in every story and lesson he shared — a coach who turned the gym into a place of connection and joy, impacting countless lives with warmth, humor, and unforgettable spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Carol, and the entire Adubato family.”
The leagues also saluted a life in basketball that included a two-year run as head coach of the Washington Mystics (2005-2007) and multiple NBA benches.
“The NBA and WNBA mourn the passing of Richie Adubato,” the NBA wrote on X. “Richie’s coaching career spanned four decades, including serving as head coach for the Dallas Mavericks, New York Liberty and Washington Mystics, as well as interim head coach for the Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic. He was also a dedicated radio analyst for Magic games for 15 years. We extend our deepest condolences to the Adubato family.”
A New Jersey native, Adubato spent 18 years coaching high school and college in the state before breaking into the pros. He graduated from William Paterson University, captaining both the basketball and baseball teams.
