Denver
Icons who defined the franchise's identity
Numbers raised to the rafters forever
The Denver Nuggets began as the Denver Rockets in the ABA in 1967 before joining the NBA in 1976. The franchise featured exciting run-and-gun offenses through the 1980s under coach Doug Moe, with Alex English and David Thompson. Dikembe Mutombo's iconic finger wag became a signature NBA moment. Carmelo Anthony led the Nuggets to the 2009 Western Conference Finals. The franchise's crowning achievement came in 2023 when Nikola Jokic — a second-round pick who became a three-time MVP — led Denver to its first NBA championship with a dominant playoff run. Jokic's historically efficient, pass-first center play has redefined the position and established Denver as a model for small-market excellence.
Denver Rockets(1967-1974)
Doug Moe won 432 games as Denver Nuggets head coach — more than any other coach in franchise history. His run-and-gun philosophy turned Denver into one of the most exciting teams in the NBA and defined what Nuggets basketball looked like for a generation. Here is why the franchise honored him with a retired number.
Before there were championships, before there were legends, there was Byron Beck — the first player ever signed by the Denver Nuggets franchise, who wore the jersey for ten straight years. Here is why #40 belongs in the rafters.
Conference
Western
Division
Northwest
Home Arena
Ball Arena
Founded
1967
Mascot
Rocky the Mountain Lion
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