Richie Adubato, a revered figure in the world of basketball coaching, has passed away at the age of 87, his family announced. Adubato died on Thursday, November 7, 2025, with his family sharing the news on social media the following day, Friday, November 8, 2025. His daughter, Beth, fondly remembered him as "the funny, smart, energetic, genuinely warm human being he always was."

Adubato left an indelible mark on the New York Liberty, where he served as head coach for six seasons from 1999 to 2004. During his tenure, he guided the team to three WNBA Finals appearances. He holds the franchise record for most games coached with 178 and is ranked second for career wins in New York with 100 victories, coaching future Hall of Fame players such as Teresa Weatherspoon and Becky Hammon. The New York Liberty organization paid tribute to his profound impact, stating, "With deep gratitude we remember the legacy of Richie Adubato, who guided the Liberty to 3 WNBA Finals appearances and set a standard of excellence that still inspires our organization today."

His extensive coaching career also included significant roles with the Orlando Magic. Adubato was the interim head coach for the Magic in 1997 after several years as an assistant, and later transitioned to become the team's radio analyst from 2005 to 2020. The DeVos family and the Orlando Magic released a statement mourning his passing, emphasizing that "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."

Beyond the Liberty and Magic, Adubato's coaching journey spanned four decades and included head coaching positions with the Dallas Mavericks from 1989 to 1993, and interim head coaching stints with the Detroit Pistons during the 1979-80 season. The NBA and WNBA collectively mourned his passing, acknowledging his roles with the Mavericks, New York Liberty, and Washington Mystics, as well as interim positions with the Pistons and Orlando Magic. Prior to his NBA career, Adubato dedicated 18 years to coaching high school and college basketball in New Jersey, having graduated from William Paterson where he captained both the basketball and baseball teams.

Tributes poured in from across the basketball community. ESPN analyst Dick Vitale expressed his sorrow for his "dear friend," reminiscing about Adubato as one of the "JERSEY BOYS" who pursued coaching dreams at various levels, from high school to the NBA. Vitale assured that Adubato "will be missed but never forgotten."