Michael Jordan, NBA family react to Paul Silas' death Posted Dec 14, 2022 Paul Silas, a three-time NBA champion and longtime coach – including LeBron James’ first NBA coach – died Sunday. He was 79. NBA legend and Hornets chairman Michael Jordan said in a statement that Silas was an “incredible leader” and “one of the all-time great people in our game.” Current and past NBA players as well as others shared their thoughts. (NBA.com)