Hall of Famer Jerry Sloan Has Parkinson's Disease, Lewy Body Dementia

Jerry Sloan was one of the most successful coaches in NBA history. He lead the Utah Jazz for 23 seasons and amassing an incredible record of 1,123-682 (.623 winning percentage) and two Western Conference titles before retiring in 2011. On Wednesday, the 74-year-old told The Salt Lake Tribune that he is suffering from Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body dementia.

Parkinson’s is a progressive nervous system disorder that impacts movement and tremors are typically the most well-known sign of the disease. While there is no cure, medication can help manage the symptoms. Unfortunately, today’s report claims Sloan’s symptoms are getting worse.

Lewy Body is a neurological disorder that impacts everything from memory to analytical thinking and problem solving. Again, there is no cure for the disease.

As a coach, Sloan was known for his aggressive sideline demeanor and his toughness. He also played 11 seasons in the NBA after the Baltimore Bullets made him the No. 4 pick of the 1965 NBA Draft out of Evansville. Sloan spent the final 10 years of his career as a member of the Chicago Bulls, where he was a two-time All-Star and four-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection. The Bulls retired his jersey (No. 4) in 1978, and he was the team’s head coach from 1979-1982.

Sloan was inducted into the basketball Hall of Fame in 2009, in the same class as his long-time point guard John Stockton.

We wish Sloan and his family the best as they deal with managing his health.