The Denver Nuggets made NBA history last June when they reached the promised land and became world champions. Two-time MVP Nikola Jokic led the way with a playoff run for the ages, capping off a legendary season for the Mile-High City.
Joker entrenched himself in basketball lore with his epic postseason, averaging 30.0 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists across 20 games. The Serbian sensation broke records and blew minds with masterclass after masterclass, cracking 40 points three times during Denver’s title run.
Jamal Murray also shook the league with his otherworldly play, serving as an incredible second option with first-option talent. The Blue Arrow poured in 26.1 points and 7.1 dimes per game in his first postseason since tearing his ACL in 2021.
Denver’s supporting cast also thrived on the big stage. Aaron Gordon was a star in his role, locking up Kevin Durant in the second round and raising the Nuggets’ ceiling as much as anyone during the playoffs. Meanwhile, Bruce Brown went from Denver’s best-kept secret to a leaguewide fan favorite.
The stars ultimately aligned for the 2022-23 Nuggets, and they left their imprint on NBA history in the process. Here are six ways that they did so.
1. Denver Nuggets take home first-ever NBA championship
The Nuggets captured their first title in franchise history when they became 2023 champs. Denver also reached the NBA Finals for the first time ever, backing up their 53-win regular season in historical fashion.
In addition, the Nuggets finished with the best record in the NBA for the first time in franchise history. It was the cherry on top of a sensational season for a team who had never even finished with the best record in their own conference.
In American professional sports, Denver now owns championships in football, hockey, and basketball. The Nuggets’ glorious run gave the Mile-High City its first ring since the Broncos won the Super Bowl in 2016.