The basketball world is mourning the loss of Richie Adubato , a respected figure whose career spanned decades across the NBA , WNBA , and broadcasting. The former Orlando Magic coach and longtime radio analyst passed away Thursday at the age of 87, his family confirmed on social media Friday. Known for his quick wit, deep knowledge of the game, and passion for teaching, Adubato’s impact reached far beyond the sidelines.
Across his six-decade career, Adubato earned a reputation as one of basketball’s most genuine and energetic minds. From guiding NBA locker rooms to mentoring WNBA players and entertaining fans behind the mic, he brought an infectious enthusiasm to everything he did. His passing leaves a significant void in the sport, especially among those who witnessed his kindness and humor firsthand.
Richie Adubato’s cause of death
The cause of death of Richie Adubato has not been revealed as of yet. It is possible that the former Magic coach passed away due to old age. The Orlando Magic organization was among the first to pay tribute to the late coach. “The DeVos family and the Orlando Magic are saddened to learn of the passing of Richie Adubato,” the team said in a statement. “Richie’s legacy lives on in every story and lesson he shared — a coach who turned the gym into a place of connection and joy, impacting countless lives with warmth, humor, and unforgettable spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Carol, and the entire Adubato family.”
Adubato joined the Magic as an assistant coach in 1994 before stepping in as interim head coach in 1997. He later became a fan favorite as the team’s radio analyst from 2005 to 2020, where his insights and storytelling became part of the franchise’s identity.
Before his Magic tenure, Adubato coached the Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and Cleveland Cavaliers, as well as WNBA teams like the New York Liberty and Washington Mystics. His career path reflected his lifelong dedication to the game — from high school gyms in New Jersey to professional arenas across the country.
Dick Vitale mourns longtime friend and fellow “Jersey Boy”
Among those deeply affected by his passing was ESPN legend Dick Vitale, who shared a heartfelt tribute online. “Today my dear friend RICHIE ADUBATO passed away. Richie was one of our ‘JERSEY BOYS’ along with @MikeFratello Hubie Brown & yours truly who all chased dreams in coaching. Richie coached on every level – HS -College- @NBA. He’ll be missed but never forgotten. May Richie RIP!” Vitale wrote on X.
The two shared a bond that stretched back to their New Jersey coaching roots in the 1960s. When Vitale joined the Detroit Pistons, he brought Adubato on as an assistant, marking the start of a friendship grounded in mutual respect and love for basketball.
Also Read: Megan Thee Stallion receives heartfelt apology from boyfriend Klay Thompson after airport pickup mishap
Across his six-decade career, Adubato earned a reputation as one of basketball’s most genuine and energetic minds. From guiding NBA locker rooms to mentoring WNBA players and entertaining fans behind the mic, he brought an infectious enthusiasm to everything he did. His passing leaves a significant void in the sport, especially among those who witnessed his kindness and humor firsthand.
Richie Adubato’s cause of death
The cause of death of Richie Adubato has not been revealed as of yet. It is possible that the former Magic coach passed away due to old age. The Orlando Magic organization was among the first to pay tribute to the late coach. “The DeVos family and the Orlando Magic are saddened to learn of the passing of Richie Adubato,” the team said in a statement. “Richie’s legacy lives on in every story and lesson he shared — a coach who turned the gym into a place of connection and joy, impacting countless lives with warmth, humor, and unforgettable spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Carol, and the entire Adubato family.”
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) November 7, 2025
Adubato joined the Magic as an assistant coach in 1994 before stepping in as interim head coach in 1997. He later became a fan favorite as the team’s radio analyst from 2005 to 2020, where his insights and storytelling became part of the franchise’s identity.
Before his Magic tenure, Adubato coached the Detroit Pistons, New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks, and Cleveland Cavaliers, as well as WNBA teams like the New York Liberty and Washington Mystics. His career path reflected his lifelong dedication to the game — from high school gyms in New Jersey to professional arenas across the country.
Dick Vitale mourns longtime friend and fellow “Jersey Boy”
Among those deeply affected by his passing was ESPN legend Dick Vitale, who shared a heartfelt tribute online. “Today my dear friend RICHIE ADUBATO passed away. Richie was one of our ‘JERSEY BOYS’ along with @MikeFratello Hubie Brown & yours truly who all chased dreams in coaching. Richie coached on every level – HS -College- @NBA. He’ll be missed but never forgotten. May Richie RIP!” Vitale wrote on X.
Today my dear friend RICHIE ADUBATO passed away.Richie was one of our “JERSEY BOYS “ along with @MikeFratello Hubie Brown & yours truly who all chased dreams in coaching .Richie coached on every level - HS -College- @NBA .He’ll be missed but never forgotten .May Richie RIP! pic.twitter.com/jXMiyAjGBL
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) November 7, 2025
The two shared a bond that stretched back to their New Jersey coaching roots in the 1960s. When Vitale joined the Detroit Pistons, he brought Adubato on as an assistant, marking the start of a friendship grounded in mutual respect and love for basketball.
Also Read: Megan Thee Stallion receives heartfelt apology from boyfriend Klay Thompson after airport pickup mishap
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