Michael Malone Breaks Silence After Dismissal With Heartfelt Message
Michael Malone has spoken out for the first time since his unexpected firing as head coach of the Denver Nuggets on April 8. In a statement shared in Sunday’s edition of the Denver Post, Malone reflected on his tenure and expressed sincere appreciation for the team and its supporters.
“Ten years ago, I was given the incredible opportunity to lead the Denver Nuggets,” Malone wrote. “I had no idea how deeply it would shape the next decade of my life.
“I’m truly grateful to the Kroenke family, our amazing players, and my outstanding coaching staff,” he continued. “It was a privilege to work with such dedicated individuals every day.
“And to Nuggets Nation—it has been an honor to lead this team night after night,” Malone added. “Helping deliver the first NBA championship to Denver is something I’ll always hold close. I’ll forever appreciate the love and support you gave me and my family. Denver is home, and coaching this team has been a true privilege.”
Malone was on track to complete his 10th season before being let go just days before the end of the regular season. He departs as the most successful coach in Nuggets history, having led the team to its first NBA title in 2023 and compiling a 471-327 regular season record. His 471 regular-season and 44 playoff wins are both franchise records.
Despite the historic title, Malone was dismissed less than two years later. Assistant coach David Adelman has stepped in as interim head coach.
Team owner Josh Kroenke addressed the decision, claiming it was made in the interest of maximizing their championship chances. Tensions reportedly ran high between Malone and general manager Calvin Booth—who was also fired—largely due to disagreements over Russell Westbrook’s role. Booth favored giving younger players more time, while Malone leaned toward the veteran.
Kroenke ultimately avoided taking sides and dismissed both men.
While Malone issued a gracious public message, sources say he reacted strongly when informed of the decision, which aligns with his intense demeanor. Reports also suggest that his rapport with players had soured, particularly after allegedly giving Westbrook preferential treatment.
Despite the turbulence, the Nuggets ended the regular season strong, winning their last three games under Adelman and securing the fourth seed in the Western Conference with a 50-32 record. They’ll face the Los Angeles Clippers in the opening playoff round—a matchup that could raise eyebrows given the coaching disparity between the inexperienced Adelman and seasoned Tyronn Lue.
If the Nuggets falter early in the playoffs, the timing and reasoning behind Malone’s firing will likely come under scrutiny.
