Last Updated on December 23, 2024 by Mathew Diekhake

The Denver Nuggets have a storied history spanning both the ABA and NBA, producing legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise. Here are the most notable figures in Nuggets history:

ABA Legends

The Nuggets (originally the Denver Rockets) were a strong team during the ABA era, transitioning to the NBA in 1976.

1. Spencer Haywood

  • Position: Power Forward
  • Years with Nuggets (ABA): 1969–1970
  • Key Achievements:
    • ABA MVP (1970)
    • ABA Rookie of the Year (1970)
    • ABA Scoring Champion (1970)
    • One of the greatest rookie seasons in professional basketball history.

2. David Thompson (“Skywalker”)

  • Position: Shooting Guard/Small Forward
  • Years with Nuggets (ABA/NBA): 1975–1982
  • Key Achievements:
    • 4× NBA All-Star
    • 2× All-NBA First Team (1977, 1978)
    • ABA All-Star (1976)
    • Known for his incredible athleticism and scoring ability, including a 73-point game in 1978.

3. Dan Issel

  • Position: Center/Power Forward
  • Years with Nuggets (ABA/NBA): 1975–1985
  • Key Achievements:
    • ABA All-Star (1976)
    • NBA All-Star (1977)
    • Known as “The Horse,” Issel was a consistent scorer and leader during his time with the Nuggets.

NBA Legends

The Nuggets became an NBA team in 1976 and have since produced several iconic players.

4. Alex English

  • Position: Small Forward
  • Years with Nuggets: 1980–1990
  • Key Achievements:
    • 8× NBA All-Star
    • 3× All-NBA Second Team (1982–1984)
    • NBA Scoring Champion (1983)
    • The Nuggets’ all-time leading scorer and one of the most prolific scorers of the 1980s.
    • Jersey No. 2 retired by the Nuggets.

5. Carmelo Anthony

  • Position: Small Forward
  • Years with Nuggets: 2003–2011
  • Key Achievements:
    • 4× NBA All-Star with the Nuggets (2007–2010)
    • 2× All-NBA Second Team (2010)
    • All-NBA Third Team (2006, 2007, 2009)
    • Led the Nuggets to the Western Conference Finals in 2009.
    • One of the most talented scorers in franchise history.

6. Nikola Jokić

  • Position: Center
  • Years with Nuggets: 2015–Present
  • Key Achievements (so far):
    • 2× NBA MVP (2021, 2022)
    • NBA Finals MVP (2023)
    • 5× NBA All-Star (2019–2023)
    • 5× All-NBA Team selections (3 First Team)
    • Led the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA Championship in 2023.
    • Known as one of the most versatile and dominant big men in NBA history.

7. Chauncey Billups

  • Position: Point Guard
  • Years with Nuggets: 1998–2000, 2008–2011
  • Key Achievements:
    • NBA All-Star with the Nuggets (2010)
    • Led the Nuggets to the 2009 Western Conference Finals alongside Carmelo Anthony.
    • Known as “Mr. Big Shot” for his leadership and clutch performances.

8. Fat Lever

  • Position: Point Guard
  • Years with Nuggets: 1984–1990
  • Key Achievements:
    • 2× NBA All-Star (1988, 1990)
    • All-NBA Second Team (1987)
    • One of the most versatile guards of his era, known for his triple-doubles and defense.

9. Dikembe Mutombo

  • Position: Center
  • Years with Nuggets: 1991–1996
  • Key Achievements:
    • 3× NBA All-Star with the Nuggets (1992, 1995, 1996)
    • NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1995)
    • Led the Nuggets to a historic upset over the No. 1-seeded Seattle SuperSonics in the 1994 playoffs.

Honored Figures

  • Doug Moe (Coach): Head coach from 1980–1990, known for his high-scoring, fast-paced offense. Named NBA Coach of the Year in 1988.
  • Dan Issel (Coach/Executive): Played and later served as head coach and executive, contributing to the franchise’s growth.

Legacy and Culture

The Nuggets have transitioned from the exciting, fast-paced basketball of the 1980s to becoming a championship-caliber team with Nikola Jokić at the helm. Their success story is marked by iconic players, memorable playoff runs, and a passionate fan base.