The Denver Nuggets are known for their high-scoring offense and superstar center Nikola Jokić, but their history is filled with twists and turns.
Here’s a look at some lesser-known nuggets about this team:
- The Rockets…Then Nuggets: They started in 1967 under the name Denver Rockets as part of the ABA. They switched to Nuggets in 1974 to avoid confusion with the NBA’s Houston Rockets.
- Colorful Uniforms: The Nuggets once sported iconic rainbow skyline uniforms during the 1980s. These retro jerseys remain a fan favorite.
- The Mile-High Advantage? Playing at altitude in Denver can give teams an edge. Thinner air can tire opponents not used to it.
- High-Scoring History: The Nuggets hold the record for the highest combined score in an NBA game when they defeated the Detroit Pistons 186-184 in triple overtime in 1983.
- Dikembe the Legend: Dikembe Mutombo was a defensive powerhouse known for his shot-blocking and iconic finger wag. He’s a beloved Nuggets legend.
- Underdog Upset: In 1994, the 8th-seed Nuggets made history by defeating the top-seeded Seattle SuperSonics, a major playoff upset.
- Melo’s Scoring Spree: Carmelo Anthony was a prolific scorer for the Nuggets, known for his midrange game and offensive clutchness.
- Jokic the MVP: Nikola Jokić has made history by becoming a back-to-back MVP winner, known for his unique playmaking abilities and basketball IQ.
- Rocky the Mascot: Rocky the Mountain Lion is one of the most entertaining mascots in the NBA with his acrobatic dunks and crowd-pumping antics.
- The ABA Legacy: The Nuggets carry a legacy of the ABA league, which prioritized a fast-paced, entertaining style of basketball.
- Record-breaking Drafts The Nuggets boast an impressive track record with international draft picks, including Nikola Jokić (Serbia) and Jusuf Nurkic (Bosnia).
- Loyal Fanbase Despite not having a championship, Nuggets fans are known for their passion and dedication. The arena maintains a lively atmosphere.
- From Doug Moe to Michael Malone Doug Moe was a coaching legend during the Nuggets’ high-scoring ABA days. Current coach Michael Malone emphasizes a balanced team approach.
- Changing Colors Over the years, the Nuggets have changed colors several times, from red, white, and blue, to the rainbow era, to today’s navy, gold, and red.
- Giving Back The Nuggets are active in community work through the Kroenke Sports Charities, focusing on youth programs and local initiatives.