Nuggets coach Michael Malone made the Nuggets championship permanent
Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone takes credit for the team’s first-ever NBA championship victory. From indulging in champagne to making bold promises of more prizes, he’s enjoying the moment. And now, Malone has taken it a step further by getting a commemorative tattoo to celebrate the career.
A photo circulating on Twitter revealed that the 51-year-old coach proudly displays a new tattoo on the shoulder that shows Nuggets mascot, Maxie the Miner, holding a Larry O’Brien trophy. While fans have also inked a similar tattoo since the team won the team championship, it holds a special significance when the coach himself chooses to permanently inscribe it on his left arm. Malone’s decision to savor the breakout moment didn’t come as a surprise. He has dedicated his life to coaching, starting with an assistant job in high school and gradually climbing his way to becoming an NBA head coach. After being let go by the Sacramento Kings in 2014, he found a home with the Nuggets and built one of the strongest cultures in the league.
So Michael Malone continues to add to his legend as head coach @employee. He got a tattoo of Maxi the miner holding a Larry O’Brien trophy. Shout out to Mike Diaz of Triple W Tattoo who gave Malone his new ink. @employee @employee #MileHighBasketball pic.twitter.com/6BGp95Iu5T
– Trent M (@tmac_307) June 20, 2023
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During his tenure in Denver, Malone led the Nuggets from a period of struggle, in which they failed to make the playoffs for three straight years, in a constant challenge for success. Although four consecutive attempts at the Western Conference Finals failed, Malone’s leadership and direction were instrumental in turning the team’s fortunes around. He’s been fortunate to have Nikola Jokic by his side throughout the journey, developing the former second-round draft pick into a two-time MVP and Finals Most Valuable Player.
Given the personal importance of this heroism to Malone, it’s understandable why he chose to commemorate her with a tattoo. However, one could argue that NBA coaches don’t really need a specific reason for getting an autograph after winning a championship. Perhaps this could start a new tradition among the league’s coaching elite, always celebrating their amazing accomplishments. It would be a fitting tribute to their dedication and contribution to the sport.