It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our friend, mentor, and longtime supporter, Coach Lenny Wilkens, who passed away Sunday at the age of 88.
Lenny Wilkens was one of basketball’s greatest figures. A nine-time All-Star and Hall of Famer both as a player and a coach, he guided the Seattle SuperSonics to their first and only NBA Championship in 1979, won Coach of the Year in 1994, and led the U.S. Olympic Team to gold in 1996. Over his career, he earned 1,332 coaching victories, the third-most in NBA history. Beyond the court, his leadership extended deeply into the Seattle community through the Lenny Wilkens Foundation, which raised millions for health and education programs. His grace, humility, and lifelong dedication to uplifting others made him a true legend both in sports and in life.
This past Friday morning, I had the chance to speak with Lenny. I was not calling to ask for anything, only to check in before our Gala. Nate McMillan and I had been talking about him the past few days, and I felt led to reach out. When Lenny answered, his voice carried that same calm strength it always did.
We talked about life, about the kids at Rise Up Academy, and about staying true to the mission. Before we hung up, he said what had become his signature encouragement: “Take care of those kids. Keep doing what you are doing.”
I did not know he was sick. I was calling to check on him and Marilyn, his wife. One thing I will always cherish is that during our intimate conversation before we said goodbye, we prayed together on the phone. It was just two friends talking and lifting each other up in faith. Two days later, on Sunday, I received the news of his passing.
Lenny Wilkens was more than a Hall of Famer. He was like an oak tree in our community. Strong. Steady. Deeply rooted. His presence gave Shelter, Wisdom, and Strength to everyone around him. Our community has lost one of its greats, but the beauty of an oak tree is that its roots remain. Lenny’s roots spread far and wide. They live in every player he coached, every young person he inspired, and every family he touched.
Though our great oak has fallen, his roots continue to give life. He taught us how to lead with Love, Humility, and Faith. He showed us that true greatness is measured by how much you give, not how much you get.
Join me in honoring Lenny’s legacy by living out his words. Keep doing what you are doing. Keep showing up. Keep giving back. Keep loving deeply. That is how we keep his spirit alive.
Dr. Paul A. Stoot Sr.
Dr. Paul A. Stoot Sr. is a prominent pastor, educator, and community leader.
He currently serves as senior pastor of Greater Trinity Church in Everett, Washington, a role he’s held for over 30 years since founding it in 1993. As CEO of Rise Up Academy, he leads educational initiatives supporting youth and community development, a position he’s maintained for more than 25 years.
A U.S. Navy veteran and justice advocate, he was named Lynnwood Times Person of the Year in 2024 for his contributions to education and civil rights.
Author: Lynnwood Times Contributor
