Cotton Fitzsimmons Quotes

A collection of quotes by Cotton Fitzsimmons.

Cotton Fitzsimmons was an American basketball coach who is best known for his successful coaching career in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on October 7, 1931, in Hannibal, Missouri, Fitzsimmons played college basketball at Hannibal-LaGrange College before starting his coaching journey.

Fitzsimmons began his coaching career at Moberly Junior College, followed by a successful stint at Kansas State University. In 1970, he made the transition to the NBA, coaching the Phoenix Suns. He led the Suns to their first-ever playoff appearance and was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1979. He had two more coaching stints with the Suns, in 1988 and from 1996 to 1997.

During his career, Fitzsimmons also coached the Atlanta Hawks and the San Antonio Spurs, leaving a significant impact on each franchise. He is widely recognized for his ability to develop young talent and his strategic coaching style. Fitzsimmons was a three-time NBA Coach of the Year recipient (1979, 1989, and 1993) and ended his coaching career with 832 regular-season victories.

Off the court, Fitzsimmons was known for his charismatic personality, sense of humor, and love for the game of basketball. He was highly respected by players and fellow coaches alike for his basketball knowledge and genuine connection with his team. Cotton Fitzsimmons passed away on July 24, 2004, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the annals of NBA coaching.