On Sunday, Oct. 25, the National Basketball Association community was devastated to learn of the passing of Philip “Flip” Saunders, president and head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves. In late August, it was announced that Saunders had been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma back in June, a type of lung cancer. The diagnosis was initially optimistic, indicating that Saunders would only miss a limited amount of time, and would be able to return to coach the Timberwolves at some point this season. However, following complications, it was announced in September that he would miss the whole year. Saunders’ death continues what has been a tragic year for NBA fans, as hall of fame players Darryl Dawkins and Moses Malone both passed away earlier this year.

 

Outside of his family, perhaps nobody was more devastated by Saunders’ death then Timberwolves all-star forward Kevin Garnett. Saunders was the Timberwolves general manager back in 1995, and was the one responsible for initially drafting Garnett. Together, Saunders and Garnett led some very good Timberwolves teams during the late ‘90s and early ‘00s. Garnett chose to come back to the Timberwolves via trade in the midst of last season, mainly out of respect for Saunders.

 

Saunders leaves behind a unique legacy in the NBA. While he was the coach of the Timberwolves, the team made the postseason eight out of the 10 years he was there. He was fired after the team struggled in the 2004­-2005 season. Many fans felt the firing was undeserved. Saunders had led consistently competitive teams and was the most successful coach in team history.

 

After 10 years, the Timberwolves ownership believed the team needed a new voice. Saunders moved on to lead the Detroit Pistons to three straight conference finals appearances. He was fired after losing to the Celtics in the 2008 Eastern Conference Finals, and the Celtics of course were led by Saunders’ former player Garnett. Saunders then proceeded to coach the Washington Wizards. His time in the nation’s capital was easily the least glorious of his coaching career. He was fired after leading the team to a 51­-130 record in 2.5 seasons. The one bright spot in his Wizards tenure was that he was influential in the decision to draft John Wall, a current all-star for the Wizards. Saunders was hired in 2014 to come home for a second stint as the Timberwolves head coach.

 

Many NBA stars have publicly shown their respect for Saunders. Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers wore shirts saying “FLIP” in pre-game warm ups before their season opener against the Timberwolves. LeBron James stated in an interview that the NBA had lost “a great basketball mind.” While Saunders was never able to win a championship, he was able to lead consistently competitive teams. He was talented enough not only to lead a team on the hardwood, but also make decisions in the front office as a general manager. His influence on the NBA and the players he coached will not easily be forgotten.

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