I know for a fact that once Flip Saunders received the news of being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma – a form of cancer – he attacked it with the mindset of “What’s our game plan?” That’s the type of competitor he was. He felt whoever he had behind him going into battle, they would give it their all and fight to the end. And I know for a fact that that’s exactly what he did from beginning to end.
Saunders was loved by many in the NBA circle, as well as fans around the world. For 17 seasons, Flip Saunders would get the most out of every player, coaching staff and fan at every organization he was apart of.
Saunders had a career coaching record of 654-592 (52%) and reached the postseason 11 times. His most successful stint was with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was the leading catalyst in drafting one of the best power forwards of our era, Kevin Garnett in 1995. Garnett would win the 2003 MVP award under Saunders, and helped lead the Timberwolves to the first and only Western Conference Finals. Saunders would be the only coach to lead the Wolves to their only postseason appearances.
Saunders would also continue his success by taking the 2004 defending NBA champion Detroit Pistons to three straight Eastern Conference Finals appearances.
After two seasons with the Washington Wizards, Saunders returned to the Wolves and became President of Basketball Operations. Once returning, Saunders went right back to the drawing board and began to build what could potentially be the best young core in basketball today. He traded All-star Kevin Love for the draft rights of 2014 #1 overall pick and Rookie of the Year Andrew Wiggins, drafted 2014 Slam Dunk champion Zach LaVine, and selected Karl Anthony-Towns at #1 overall.
He also brought back the man who he drafted in 1995 out of high school, Kevin Garnett to help him teach and mentor the young group, which warmed the hearts of many NBA fans.
From the reactions from players, coaches and colleagues; he left a positive imprint in the NBA and will be missed.