Quick Intro: Denver Nuggets History

The Denver Nuggets are a professional basketball team. They played in the American Basketball Association from 1967-1976. Since 1976 they’ve been a part of the National Basketball Association. Their colors are powder blue, navy blue, gold and white.

They started out as the Denver Rockets in 1967. In 1974 they changed their name to the Denver Nuggets.

The Denver Nuggets have a storied history of success. While the NBA title has been allusive, they’ve made many playoff appearances since joining the NBA. They were divisional champions in 1977, 1978, 1985, 1988, 2006 and 2009. Denver went to three conference finals in 1978, 1985 and 2009.

The Nuggets had three players make the Hall of Fame. They include Alex English, Dan Issel and David Thompson. In addition three of their coaches made the Hall of Fame. They include Larry Brown, Alex Hannum and John McLendon.

The Denver Nuggets retired five numbers. They include Alex English (2), David Thompson (33), Bryon Beck (40), Dan Issel (44) and Coach Doug Moe (432).

The Nuggets had some high profile draft picks in their history. Dikembe Mutombo was the fourth pick in the NBA draft in 1981. Carmelo Anthony was third pick in the 2003 NBA draft. Anthony’s addition to the team transformed the Nuggets from the worst team in the league to a playoff contender in his first season.

The Nuggets have had three venues in their franchise’s history. They played in the Auditorium Arena from 1967-1975. The McMichols Arena was their home from 1975 to 1999. Since 1999 the Pepsi Center has been their home.