Tex Winter, the architect of the triangle offense that helped power three-peats in Chicago and Los Angeles, died Wednesday at the age of 96. Coach Winter learned the complex system from its inventor Sam Barry while he played for the Hall of Fame coach at USC.
Winter gained prominence as an assistant coach under Phil Jackson being with Jackson for nine NBA titles. Winter also spent 30 years as a head coach in the collegiate level, most notably as the head man at Kansas State. While he was at the Wildcats’ helm, Kansas State won eight Big 8 conference championships and reached the Final Four in 1958 and 1964.
Chicago Bulls Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations John Paxson releases this statement on behalf of the Bulls:
“Tex Winter was a basketball legend and perhaps the finest fundamental teacher in the history of our game. He was an innovator who had high standards for how basketball should be played and approached everyday. Those of us who were lucky enough to play for him will always respect his devotion to the game of basketball. His contributions to the Bulls organization will always be remembered.”
Lakers statement on the passing of Tex Winter pic.twitter.com/18Hxu2ldjN
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpears) October 11, 2018
In an emailed statement to the Tribune, Michael Jordan on Tex Winter: "I learned so much from Coach Winter. He was a pioneer and a true student of the game. His triangle offense was a huge part of our six championships with the Bulls. He was a tireless worker (cont.)
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 11, 2018
Michael Jordan on Tex Winter: "Tex was always focused on details and preparation and a great teacher. I was lucky to play for him. My condolences to his family."
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 11, 2018
Bulls legend and Hall of Farmer Scottie Pippen had this to say about Winter:
Tex Winter was my biggest critic. He was also my biggest fan. A few words about the legendary coach who lived his 96 years as well as anyone could have… pic.twitter.com/vOrS7UNkMS
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) October 11, 2018
Tex was a man of fundamentals. Ball movement + player movement = success. It was never about the individual.
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) October 11, 2018
Without Tex, we may never have won a title. He taught us how to slice and dice our opponents on the offensive end. We had the GOAT, but it was Tex’s knowledge and triangle offense that helped us shred defenses. pic.twitter.com/cme9BHB6NP
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) October 11, 2018
Tex was a perfectionist. He insisted that we execute with energy, passion and precision. No matter our opponent, he demanded the most out of all of us.
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) October 11, 2018
Tex leaves a helluva legacy behind. Student of the game. Hall of Famer. 9 NBA championships as a coach. He taught me how to become a better offensive player. How to be patient on the floor. How to take criticism. How to win. Thank you, Tex. Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/aFKRr23ewZ
— Scottie Pippen (@ScottiePippen) October 11, 2018
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released this statement in regards ronWinter:
Adam Silver statement on Tex Winter: pic.twitter.com/hVz4CpUncs
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) October 11, 2018
