Los Angeles - NBA Hall of Fame coach Chuck Daly, who guided the Detroit Pistons to back-to-back Championships, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

"Chuck is being treated for the cancer, and the family is requesting privacy," said Pistons vice-president of media relations Matt Dobek, who on Friday made the announcement on behalf of the family.

Dobek didn't comment on details regarding the diagnosis of Daly, who coached the 1992 gold medal "Dream Team" at the Barcelona Olympics," only to say the 78-year old is in good spirits.

Joe Dumars, who played on the 1989 and '90 championship squads before becoming Pistons president of basketball operations, released a statement for Daly and his family.

"He holds a special place in our hearts and we'll be here to support him in any way we can."

"He's going to fight this, no question," Pistons longtime trainer Mike Abdenour said. "He will handle this with grace and dignity and fight it to the ninth degree." (dpa)