Denver Nuggets Appoint David Adelman as Full-Time Head Coach

Breaking: David Adelman is appointed as the Denver Nuggets’ full-time head coach.

Denver, CO – May 22, 2025 – The Denver Nuggets have officially removed the interim tag from David Adelman, naming him the team’s full-time head coach. This decision follows a commendable performance by Adelman, who led the Nuggets to the Western Conference semifinals after stepping in late in the regular season.

A Swift Transition to Leadership

Adelman, 44, was thrust into the head coaching role on April 8, 2025, after the surprising dismissal of then-head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth. Despite the abrupt change, Adelman guided the Nuggets to a 3-0 finish to close the regular season, securing the fourth seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

Playoff Performance Under Adelman

In the postseason, the Nuggets showcased resilience under Adelman’s leadership. They overcame the Los Angeles Clippers in a seven-game series during the first round. Although they were ultimately eliminated by the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference semifinals, the Nuggets’ performance was commendable, especially considering injuries to key players like Aaron Gordon, Michael Porter Jr., and Jamal Murray .

Player Endorsements

Adelman’s impact was evident both on and off the court. All-Star center Nikola Jokić praised Adelman’s leadership, emphasizing his ability to foster a positive team environment. Similarly, forward Aaron Gordon highlighted Adelman’s emphasis on constructive communication and team cohesion .

A Legacy of Dedication

David Adelman is the son of former NBA coach Rick Adelman. He began his coaching career in high school before joining the NBA ranks. After stints with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Orlando Magic, he joined the Nuggets in 2017 as an assistant coach. Notably, he was part of the coaching staff that led the Nuggets to the 2023 NBA Championship. His promotion to head coach marks a significant milestone in his coaching journey .

Looking Ahead

With Adelman at the helm, the Nuggets aim to build on their recent successes and address areas for improvement. The front office’s confidence in Adelman reflects their belief in his vision for the team’s future. As the Nuggets prepare for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Adelman to continue fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork.