The Denver Nuggets are a franchise that has steadily grown into an NBA powerhouse, culminating in their first championship in 2023. Founded in 1967 as a member of the American Basketball Association (ABA), the team originally played as the Denver Rockets before rebranding as the Nuggets in 1974. When the ABA merged with the NBA in 1976, Denver became one of the league’s most competitive teams.
In the late 1970s and 1980s, the Nuggets were led by high-scoring stars like David Thompson and Alex English. Under coach Doug Moe, the team became known for its fast-paced, high-scoring offense. While they were regular playoff contenders, they were unable to break through to the NBA Finals.
The 1990s and early 2000s saw the team struggle, but the arrival of Carmelo Anthony in 2003 brought renewed hope. Alongside players like Chauncey Billups and Kenyon Martin, Anthony led Denver to multiple playoff appearances, including a trip to the Western Conference Finals in 2009. However, the team could never quite reach the NBA’s highest stage.
A new era began in the mid-2010s with the rise of Nikola Jokić, a second-round draft pick who developed into one of the greatest centers in NBA history. Alongside Jamal Murray, Jokić led the Nuggets to their first NBA championship in 2023, defeating the Miami Heat in the Finals. Jokić’s dominance, unselfish play, and leadership cemented his place among the league’s best players.
Today, the Nuggets remain one of the top teams in the NBA, built around Jokić and a strong supporting cast. With excellent coaching, smart roster management, and a loyal fan base, Denver is poised to compete for more championships in the years to come.