Last Updated on January 21, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake

Frank LaydenFrank Layden is a retired American basketball coach and executive, best known for his significant contributions to the Utah Jazz organization.

Personal Information:

  • Full Name: Francis Patrick Layden
  • Nationality: American
  • Date of Birth: January 5, 1932
  • Hometown: Brooklyn, New York, USA
  • High School: Fort Hamilton High School, Brooklyn, New York
  • College: Niagara University (1950–1953)
  • Children: Information not publicly available
  • Siblings: Information not publicly available

Coaching Career:

  • Niagara University (1968–1976): Layden began his coaching career at Niagara University, achieving a record of 119 wins and 97 losses, including an NCAA tournament appearance and two NIT post-season berths.
  • Atlanta Hawks (Assistant Coach): In the late 1970s, Layden served as an assistant coach under Hubie Brown with the Atlanta Hawks.
  • Utah Jazz (1981–1988): Layden became the head coach of the Utah Jazz in 1981, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1984 and served as the head coach for the NBA All-Star Game in 1984.
  • Utah Starzz (1998–1999): Layden also served as the head coach for the Utah Starzz in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) during the 1998–1999 seasons.

Executive Career:

  • Utah Jazz (1989–1999): After retiring from coaching, Layden served as the president and general manager of the Utah Jazz, overseeing the team’s operations and player acquisitions.

Honors and Awards:

  • NBA Coach of the Year (1984): Recognized for his outstanding coaching performance during the 1983–1984 NBA season.
  • NBA All-Star Game Head Coach (1984): Served as the head coach for the Western Conference during the 1984 NBA All-Star Game.
  • J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award (1984): Honored for his contributions to the community and sportsmanship.
  • Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award (2019): Recognized for his enduring impact on the game of basketball.
  • No. 1 Retired by Utah Jazz: The Jazz honored Layden by retiring his jersey number 1, acknowledging his significant contributions to the franchise.