Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The Denver Nuggets have undergone several ownership changes since the franchise was founded in 1967 as a member of the American Basketball Association (ABA). Each ownership group has contributed to the team’s growth, from its ABA roots to its emergence as an NBA championship franchise.

James Trindle (1967–1972)

James Trindle was the founding owner of the franchise, which began play as the Denver Rockets in 1967. During the early ABA years, the organization worked to establish professional basketball in Denver and build a local fan base.

Bill Ringsby (1972–1985)

Transportation executive Bill Ringsby acquired the franchise in 1972. During his ownership, the team was renamed the Denver Nuggets in 1974 and joined the NBA as part of the ABA-NBA merger in 1976. The Nuggets became one of the ABA’s most successful teams and remained competitive after entering the NBA.

Sidney Shlenker (1985)

Sidney Shlenker purchased the Nuggets in 1985, but his ownership was short-lived due to financial difficulties. Although brief, his tenure marked a transitional period for the franchise.

COMSAT Corporation (1985–2000)

COMSAT Corporation acquired control of the Nuggets later in 1985 through its sports subsidiary. The franchise remained under corporate ownership for approximately 15 years. During this period, the Nuggets made several playoff appearances, including their notable first-round upset of the Seattle SuperSonics in 1994.

Stan Kroenke (2000–Present)

Real estate and sports entrepreneur Stan Kroenke became the majority owner of the Nuggets in 2000. Under Kroenke’s ownership, the franchise has enjoyed its most sustained period of success, regularly qualifying for the playoffs and developing into a championship contender.

The pinnacle of the Kroenke era came in 2023 when the Nuggets won their first NBA championship. The organization has also benefited from long-term stability, strong player development, and significant investment in basketball operations.

Conclusion

The Denver Nuggets’ ownership history includes James Trindle, Bill Ringsby, Sidney Shlenker, COMSAT Corporation, and current owner Stan Kroenke. While several groups helped guide the franchise through its ABA and early NBA years, the Kroenke era has produced the greatest success, including the team’s first NBA title.