Del Harris was born on October 13, 1937 in Plainfield, Indiana. Growing up, he developed a passion for basketball and went on to play college basketball at Milligan College. After graduating, he began his coaching career, starting at the high school level before eventually making his way to the NBA.
Del Harris quickly rose through the ranks in the NBA, serving as head coach for the Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Los Angeles Lakers. One of the highlights of his coaching career came in 1995 when he was named the NBA's Coach of the Year while coaching the Lakers. During his time with the Lakers, he had the opportunity to work with legendary players like Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O'Neal, and Magic Johnson.
Throughout his coaching career, Del Harris faced both successes and challenges. He was known for his strategic mindset and ability to motivate his players, leading his teams to multiple playoff appearances. However, he also faced criticism at times for his coaching decisions and was not immune to the pressures of the competitive NBA environment.
Off the court, Del Harris found joy and support in his family. He married Anne Harris and together they had five children, one of whom was with Anne and four from a previous marriage. Despite the demands of his coaching career, Del always made time for his family and valued their love and support.
Del Harris left a lasting impact on the NBA and the players he coached. His dedication to the game and his ability to connect with his players earned him respect throughout the league. While he may no longer be on the sidelines, his influence and legacy continue to inspire future generations of coaches and players.