Kim Hughes (June 4, 1952 – August 29, 2025) was an American professional basketball player and coach, best known for his time as a center in the American Basketball Association (ABA) and National Basketball Association (NBA), as well as his long coaching career in the NBA. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, Hughes played for several teams including the New York Nets, Denver Nuggets, and Cleveland Cavaliers before transitioning into coaching. He later served as an assistant coach for the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Portland Trail Blazers.
Kim Galen Hughes – Early Life
Kim Hughes was born on June 4, 1952, in Freeport, Illinois, United States. He developed an early passion for basketball during his school years and went on to play college basketball at the University of Wisconsin. His strong presence as a center and impressive rebounding ability earned him recognition, eventually leading to a professional career in the ABA and NBA.
Kim Galen Hughes – Career
Kim Hughes began his professional basketball career in the ABA with the New York Nets, where he showcased strong defensive skills and rim protection. After the ABA-NBA merger, he continued in the NBA, playing for teams like the Denver Nuggets and Cleveland Cavaliers, earning a reputation as a hardworking, team-oriented player. Following his playing days, Hughes transitioned into coaching, starting as an assistant with the Denver Nuggets before joining the Los Angeles Clippers, where he even served as interim head coach in 2010. Later, from 2012 to 2015, he was an assistant coach for the Portland Trail Blazers, where he became a mentor to many young players. Throughout his career, Hughes was widely respected for his basketball knowledge, leadership, and deep personal connection with players.
Kim Galen Hughes – Personal Life
Kim Hughes was widely admired for his humility and caring nature. Former players often described him as a father figure and mentor who went beyond the game to support their personal growth. Although details of his private life were kept relatively low-profile, his relationships within the basketball community were deeply meaningful.
Kim Galen Hughes – Death
Kim Hughes passed away on August 29, 2025, at the age of 73. The news of his death was confirmed by former Portland Trail Blazers center Meyers Leonard, who shared an emotional tribute on social media, calling Hughes “like a father” and recalling their final conversation. His death marked the loss of a respected figure in the basketball world, remembered for his contributions as both a player and a coach.
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