In the rich history of the Denver Nuggets, there are a select few who have earned the honor of having their numbers retired. These legends have left an indelible mark on the franchise, etching their names in Nuggets lore for eternity.
One such icon is none other than Alex English, a player many consider to be the greatest Nugget of all time. English was a second-round pick in the 1976 NBA Draft, but it was in Denver where he truly made his mark. Averaging an impressive 25.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, English solidified himself as a superstar during his time with the Nuggets. His eight-straight All-Star appearances and induction into the Hall of Fame in 1997 speak volumes about his impact on the team. English remains a franchise leader in almost every statistical category, including games played and points scored.
Joining English in the annals of Nuggets history is Fat Lever, a point guard who was instrumental in the team’s success in the 80s. Lever, selected 11th overall in the 1982 NBA Draft, was a key distributor for players like English. Making two All-Star appearances and posting impressive stats like 18.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game, Lever was a crucial piece of the Nuggets’ puzzle. Unfortunately, a knee injury forced him to retire in 1994, but his impact on the franchise remains undeniable.
Another legendary Nugget whose number hangs in the rafters is David Thompson, known as Skywalker. Thompson was the top pick in both the ABA and NBA Draft in 1975, showcasing his incredible talent early on. Winning Rookie of the Year and making multiple All-Star appearances, Thompson’s career was nothing short of spectacular. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1996, solidifying his status as one of the all-time greats.
Dan Issel is another Nuggets great who saw his number retired by the team. Starting his career in the ABA with the Kentucky Colonels, Issel transitioned to the NBA with Denver and never looked back. Averaging 20.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, Issel was a force to be reckoned with on the court. His contributions to the team’s success are immeasurable, and his induction into the Hall of Fame in 1993 is a testament to his greatness.
Last but certainly not least is Dikembe Mutombo, known for his shot-blocking prowess and signature finger wag. Mutombo, drafted fourth overall in 1991, made an immediate impact in Denver. With three All-Star appearances and multiple league-leading performances in blocks, Mutombo established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the NBA. His enshrinement in the Hall of Fame in 2015 was a fitting tribute to his remarkable career.
And let’s not forget about the legendary head coach, Doug Moe, whose winning ways earned him the honor of having his number retired by the Nuggets. Moe’s success on the sidelines solidified his place in franchise history, making him a beloved figure among Nuggets faithful.
In conclusion, the Denver Nuggets have been fortunate to have such incredible talents grace their roster over the years. From scoring machines like Alex English to defensive stalwarts like Dikembe Mutombo, these legends have left an indelible mark on the franchise that will never be forgotten. Their numbers may hang in the rafters, but their legacies will live on in the hearts of Nuggets fans forever.