Date Announced!!! Emotional!!! Netflix to Release Special Documentary Honoring Legendary Bucks Coach Don Nelson
MILWAUKEE, WI — In a heartfelt announcement that has fans across the basketball world buzzing with emotion, Netflix has officially revealed the release date for a long-awaited documentary honoring one of the sport’s most iconic figures: legendary Milwaukee Bucks Head Coach Don Nelson.
Titled “Nellie: A Basketball Maverick,” the documentary is set to premiere globally on August 16, 2025, exclusively on Netflix. The film will offer an intimate and compelling look into Nelson’s groundbreaking career, innovative coaching style, and the enduring legacy he left not only with the Bucks but across the entire NBA.
Known affectionately as “Nellie,” Don Nelson is regarded as one of the most influential minds in basketball history. His unique approach to the game—marked by offensive creativity, positionless play, and a fearless embrace of unconventional strategies—redefined modern basketball long before it became the norm. The documentary will spotlight these achievements, while also delving into Nelson’s personal journey: from his early days as a player with the Boston Celtics to his transformative coaching stints with the Bucks, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and New York Knicks.
Produced by the award-winning team behind Netflix hits like The Last Dance and Bill Russell: Legend, this emotional tribute is expected to feature exclusive interviews with former players, fellow coaches, friends, and family. Appearances by basketball greats including Dirk Nowitzki, Chris Mullin, Stephen Curry, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar will offer firsthand accounts of how Nelson changed the game—and their lives.
Perhaps most notably, the film will highlight Nelson’s tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks, where he served as head coach from 1976 to 1987. Under his leadership, the Bucks became perennial playoff contenders, known for their tough defense, fast-paced offense, and unselfish play. He earned NBA Coach of the Year honors in 1983 while with the team, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise’s most beloved figures.
The announcement triggered an outpouring of emotion on social media, with fans, former players, and journalists sharing memories and tributes using the hashtag #NellieDoc. NBA Hall of Famer Magic Johnson tweeted, “Don Nelson changed the way we think about basketball. Can’t wait to watch this!”
As the basketball community prepares for the premiere, the film promises not just to celebrate a coach, but to reflect on a life of vision, courage, and innovation. Mark your calendars—August 16 will be a day of memories, emotions, and history.