Fandom from Afar

The Denver Nuggets front office has completely transformed the roster this offseason with several high-impact moves that address key weaknesses while maintaining championship aspirations. New co-GMs Ben Tenzer and John Wallace have executed a brilliant strategy despite being hired just days before the draft, making moves that restore depth, add versatility, and relieve salary cap pressure.

• Trading Michael Porter Jr. for Cam Johnson brings a more complete player who can dribble, cut, and defend while maintaining elite shooting
• Acquiring Bruce Brown on a veteran minimum contract returns a key championship piece who understands Denver's system
• Tradin...

In this special 50th episode, I invite my children Evelyn and Bennett to reveal what it's like growing up with a basketball-obsessed parent who constantly talks about the Denver Nuggets and MVP Nikola Jokić. The kids rate my sports fanaticism between "eight and a half" and "seven thousand" on a scale of one to ten, confirming my suspected overenthusiasm.

• My children demonstrate unexpected knowledge about Nikola Jokić in our first game, including his love for horses and signature "Sombor Shuffle"
• Second game "Way Too Much" exposes my most frequent basketball complaints, from refs to media coverage of sma...

The Nuggets face crucial decisions this offseason with multiple paths forward after a disappointing follow-up to their championship season. Josh Kroenke's emphasis on internal development signals one approach, but trade possibilities and free agent signings offer alternative strategies to address the team's glaring bench weaknesses.

• Front office restructuring remains unresolved with Ben Tenzer likely to become GM, possibly with another executive above him
• David Adelman's coaching hire represents the first step in the internal development strategy
• Young players like Christian Braun, Peyton Watson, and Julian Strawther need growth to contribute meaningfully
• The Nuggets have zero dra...

The defending champion Denver Nuggets' season ended with a disappointing Game 7 blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder as Denver's lack of depth was exposed against the younger, more athletic Thunder team. Despite the difficult ending, the mid-season coaching change likely saved the Nuggets from falling into the play-in tournament, giving fans a respectable playoff run.

• Thunder dominated Game 7 with superior depth, energy, and athleticism
• Media narrative that Alex Caruso "shut down" Jokic is misleading as Thunder used a team defensive approach
• Players who gained respect: Alex Caruso for maximizing his role, Aaron Gordon for playin...

The Nuggets force a Game 7 against the Thunder with a resilient Game 6 victory at home. Julian Strawther emerges as an unexpected hero while Jamal Murray delivers a gutsy performance despite battling the flu.

• Nuggets have gone to Game 7 in 7 of their 16 playoff series in the Jokić-Murray era
• Jamal Murray plays through illness, finishing with 25 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists
• Julian Strawther provides critical spark in second half with timely scoring and energy
• Christian Braun contributes 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists as an unsung hero
• Nikola Jokić dominates with 29 points, 14 rebounds, and 8 assists
• Aaron Gordon appears...

The Nuggets showcase their championship pedigree against the Oklahoma City Thunder in an intense playoff series, demonstrating their clutch mentality and toughness despite challenges. Through three games, Denver displays remarkable resilience and veteran composure against the talented but inexperienced Thunder team.

• Coming off a seven-game series, Nuggets steal Game 1 on the road with Aaron Gordon's game-winning three
• Game 2 sees OKC respond with a dominant blowout performance reminiscent of their regular season form
• Physical Game 3 features inconsistent officiating that appears to frustrate Jokić, who struggles with his shot
• Despite Jokić's rare off night (0-11 from three...

The Nuggets defeat the Clippers in Game 7, adding another chapter to their history of decisive playoff games and setting up a second-round matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Denver's victory came through unexpected heroes as Russell Westbrook, Christian Brown, and Aaron Gordon stepped up while Jokić and Murray had quieter offensive performances.

• Russell Westbrook delivered a revenge game against his former team with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals 
• Jokić and Murray combined for only about 30 points, yet the Nuggets still dominated
• Christian Brown continues to develop as a two-way player, hitting big shots and defending well
...

The Nuggets-Clippers playoff series has delivered incredible drama with four unique games showcasing championship-level resilience. Aaron Gordon's historic game-winning buzzer-beating dunk saved Game 4 and tied the series 2-2, becoming the first playoff buzzer-beating dunk in NBA history. 

• Game 1 featured Westbrook's redemption with crucial three-pointers against his former team
• Despite Kawhi Leonard's dominance in Game 2, MPJ contributed 15 points and 15 rebounds before a late turnover and shoulder injury
• Clippers dominated Game 3 with hot three-point shooting, winning by 34 points
• Denver built a 22-point lead in Game 4 before exhaustion allowed LA back in, setting up Gordon's miracle finish
• Jok...

The Nuggets shocked the basketball world by firing both championship-winning head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth with just three games left in the regular season, sparking a dramatic turnaround in team energy and performance. Stories revealed a toxic power struggle where Malone would purposely set up practice to humiliate players drafted by Booth while Booth would trade veterans to force Malone to play younger talent.

• Both men built the championship team but ultimately tore the organization apart through stubbornness
• Coach Malone transformed the Nuggets culture and should be remembered as the team's greatest coac...

The Denver Nuggets are in a tailspin with four straight losses despite Nikola Jokić's historic offensive production. Championship hopes are fading as the team battles injuries, exhaustion, and disconnection with just three games left in the regular season.

• Fourth in the West but tied for eighth, with the play-in tournament becoming a real possibility
• Jamal Murray's hamstring injury now considered more than day-to-day, might miss playoffs
• Aaron Gordon and Michael Porter Jr. playing through injuries but significantly limited
• Jokić showing visible frustration with teammates' lack of movement and effort
• Team chemistry has disappeared...

The Nuggets have been on a wild rollercoaster ride, from Jokić's historic 30-20-20 game to baffling losses against the league's worst teams and impressive wins against its best.

• Nikola Jokić made NBA history with the first 30-20-20 game ever recorded
• Minnesota Timberwolves seem to have the Nuggets' number, especially affecting Jamal Murray's confidence
• Despite resting starters, the Nuggets bench led by Aaron Gordon and Russell Westbrook pulled off an improbable win against Golden State
• This year's Nuggets can beat anyone and lose to anyone on any given night
• Created a personal bra...

The Denver Nuggets are striving for consistency in their play as they approach the playoffs. Jamal Murray's fluctuating performances are a significant focal point as the team navigates a tight schedule and strives to find their rhythm.

• Overview of the Nuggets' recent results and performance 
• Examination of Jamal Murray's inconsistent play 
• Analysis of potential playoff opponents in the Western Conference 
• Insights into team strategy and lineup adjustments 
• Predictions for upcoming games against key rivals 
• Discussion of the importance of maintaining motivation and focus 

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Have you ever wondered how your favorite NBA players might fit into the whimsical world of rom-coms? As the Denver Nuggets ride the highs and lows of their season, I've taken a creative leap, blending the thrill of basketball with the charm of classic romantic comedies. Imagine DeAndre Jordan as the enduring "You've Got Mail," or Michael Porter Jr. capturing our hearts like "Sleepless in Seattle." And for a hearty laugh, picture Russell Westbrook's LA saga with a dash of "Pretty Woman" flair, featuring a humorous cameo by LeBron and Jokic. Join me for a playful escapade where the...

The Denver Nuggets are experiencing a thrilling resurgence, moving towards championship contender status with standout individual performances and a revamped team chemistry. Highlighting Jamal Murray's improvement, Russell Westbrook's integration, and the emergence of young players, the episode encapsulates the excitement surrounding the team's trajectory as they prepare for playoffs.

• Nuggets show strong recent performance following a rocky December 
• Jamal Murray demonstrating reinvigorated play and endurance 
• Russell Westbrook's positive impact as a starting player 
• Aaron Gordon thriving in a new sixth-man role 
• Young players Brown, Watson, and Strother finding their place 
• DeAndre Jordan exceeding...

The podcast delves into the challenges currently facing the Denver Nuggets, emphasizing the impact of injuries, team dynamics, and the need for a shift in mindset as they approach the New Year. Listeners engage with discussions about player performances, the balance between patience and urgency, and exploring potential changes to support their star player, Jokic. 

• Injuries to key players affecting performance 
• Apathy impacting the team's energy and chemistry 
• Importance of patience despite performance struggles 
• Potential and challenges faced by young players 
• Dangers of being a non-shooting team in a three-point era 
• Energy levels of key play...

What if an unofficial holiday could encapsulate the brilliance of a singular athlete? As we celebrate "Jokmas," we reflect on Nikola Jokic's transformative influence on the Denver Nuggets. It's been a turbulent ride with thrilling peaks and disheartening troughs, highlighted by the palpable tension during their clash with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Jamal Murray's visible discord with Aaron Gordon raised eyebrows, and the subsequent shocking defeat to the Washington Wizards amplified calls for change. Could leadership shifts or roster tweaks be the key to unleashing the Nuggets' full potential? This episode grapples with the team's internal dynamics and their impact...

What happens when the Denver Nuggets find themselves without their star player, Nikola Jokic? We unravel the recent tumultuous stretch for the Nuggets, including Jokic's brief absence due to the joyous occasion of his son's birth. As fans of basketball and fatherhood, we dive into how the team struggled without their MVP, resulting in tough losses to the Pelicans and Grizzlies. We shine a light on Jamal Murray's hurdles in stepping up during Jokic's absence. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on fatherhood, both in the literal and metaphorical sense, as we also celebrate Coach Michael Malone's leadership and...

Discover the surprising twists and turns of the Denver Nuggets' season as we unpack how they've managed to rise above early challenges. What makes Nikola Jokic's performance so exceptional this year, and how has he elevated the team despite injuries to key players like Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon? You’ll learn about the unexpected adversities the team has faced, including Dario Saric's struggle to fit in and how Russell Westbrook's leadership has injected new energy into the squad. This episode promises a deep dive into the Nuggets' resilience and the thrilling anticipation as they prepare to face off ag...

Are the Denver Nuggets on the brink of a new NBA dynasty, or will the Boston Celtics steal their thunder? Tune in to our season two kickoff of "Fandom From Afar" and get a courtside seat to our spirited analysis of the upcoming NBA season. We promise to unveil intriguing connections between the Nuggets and teams like the Wizards, Trailblazers, and Nets, all through playful trade wishes and bold predictions. The spotlight is firmly on the Nuggets, as we ponder their potential to dominate the league and examine their heated rivalry with the Kings, alongside entertaining takes on their...

Ever wondered how one player's move can change the entire fate of a team? In our special anniversary episode of Fandom From Afar, we celebrate an incredible year of podcasting and dive into the hypothetical world of Russell Westbrook joining the Nuggets. Through our unique game, Sliding Doors, we explore three potential scenarios that could unfold with Westbrook on the team. From a season filled with injuries and frustrations to one brimming with renewed energy and victory, you get to choose which path seems most likely—or most hopeful. 

This episode is not just a look back but...

What if you could experience the excitement of a Hall of Fame induction ceremony without ever leaving your home? Join us as we recount our unforgettable journey to Cooperstown, where the stars aligned with beautiful weather and unparalleled enthusiasm. From our prime seats, we had the perfect vantage point to soak in the grandeur of past legends like Cal Ripken, Billy Williams, and Goose Gossage. Todd Helton’s speech, introduced by none other than Larry Walker, was the perfect mix of humor and heartfelt emotion, making the event an indelible memory.

Our family's personal reflections add another la...

What happens when a family of die-hard Colorado Rockies fans heads to Cooperstown for Todd Helton's Hall of Fame induction? Join us for a special detour from our usual Denver Nuggets content as we share a heartwarming journey filled with baseball nostalgia, family bonding, and the unexpected beauty of northern New York. From seamless travel amidst a Microsoft outage to immersing ourselves in baseball history at the museum, this episode is packed with personal stories and treasured memories. 

Relive iconic baseball moments, from Babe Ruth's legendary status and the 1993 expansion year of the Rockies, to the thrilling 1998 h...

(YouTube Test)What if the Denver Nuggets' decision to let KCP sign with the Orlando Magic is a strategic masterstroke rather than a blunder? In this episode of "Fandom From Afar," we dissect the Nuggets' offseason moves, balancing short-term setbacks against long-term gains under the NBA's second apron rules. While KCP's departure may sting, we explore the silver linings with Christian Brown stepping up and the promising addition of undrafted free agent Trey Alexander. We also dive into the ongoing buzz around Russell Westbrook potentially joining the roster and what that could mean for the Nuggets' bench depth and...

Can the Denver Nuggets bounce back from a challenging season and reclaim their competitive edge? Join us on "Fandom From Afar" as we kick off our return with a fervent celebration of the Boston Celtics' championship triumph, acknowledging their dominant and well-earned victory. Even though our cherished Denver Nuggets faced a tough season conclusion, we delve into their playoff performance, citing exhaustion and underlining the critical necessity of keeping Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to retain the team's core strength. The importance of this offseason for the Nuggets cannot be overstated, and we express hope and confidence for brighter days ahead.
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As the dust settles on the Denver Nuggets' tumultuous season, I take a heartfelt look back at the highs and lows, the thrills of victory, and the sting of a Game 7 defeat. You won't just hear a recap; together, we'll dissect the patterns that led to our downfall, from squandered leads to overworked starters. It's more than just a post-mortem—it's an acknowledgement of the unforgettable moments, like witnessing Jokic's MVP magic and celebrating our championship triumph. And while we may be licking our wounds, I'll share why this era of Nuggets basketball, with all its lessons and joys, is...

Discover the secret sauce behind the Denver Nuggets' thrilling comeback and how Nikola Jokic's extraordinary journey to his third MVP win has turned the tides in the playoffs. As the series stands at a knife-edge, we take you through the emotional rollercoaster from the depths of despair to the peaks of triumph, all led by Jokic's masterful plays that seem to have been calculated by a basketball supercomputer. We also tip our hats to legend Moses Malone, whose legacy casts a long shadow and offers us poignant lessons in sportsmanship and excellence. And for those moments where my crystal...

Unlock the gritty details behind the Denver Nuggets' playoff predicaments as we scrutinize their recent hard-knock lessons at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. We're going beyond the scoreboards to dissect how a blend of strategy clash, physicality, and psychological warfare has the Nuggets searching for answers. From Rudy Gobert's mind-bending no-show to the parallels with a past 76er's showdown, we're putting everything on the table. Bear witness to Minnesota's ferocious rise, and hear our take on why Denver's usual spark seems to be dimming, with referees' leniency towards the Wolves' aggressive play only fanning the flames of the...

Discover the tenacity and heart-stopping moments as we unpack the Denver Nuggets' thrilling series win over the Lakers, which concluded with a gentleman's sweep—a testament to their playoff resilience. Feel the pulse of the game as we recount Jamal Murray's game-winning heroics, weigh in on his health, and laud Michael Porter Jr.'s unwavering impact. As the Nuggets gear up for their next hurdle against the Minnesota Timberwolves, we dissect the strategic plays that could tip the scales in this nail-biting matchup. Join me, your courtside companion, as we explore how Denver's key players can neutralize the offensive th...

As the crack of the bat echoes in our hearts, Tyler, a true Baltimore Orioles devotee, steps up to the plate to share his touching origin story with the team—a tale woven with memories of his grandfather and the diamond heroics of Orioles legends. Our exchange, rich with both nostalgia and forward-looking enthusiasm, captures the bittersweet symphony of the past pitching disappointments and the bright horizon promised by fresh ownership and a burgeoning roster of young talent. We stroll through the hallowed grounds of Oriole Park at Camden Yards, where each home run etched into Utah Street's plaques is...

Get ready to ride the rollercoaster of NBA playoff predictions that could either make me a basketball Nostradamus or the guy who totally airballed it. This episode is a slam dunk of analysis on the upcoming high-tension matchups, and I'm dropping fearless forecasts that'll either have you nodding in agreement or passionately challenging my calls. From the OKC's potential clean sweep to the star-studded Dallas vs. Clippers showdown that's poised to keep you on the edge of your seat, we're covering every angle, every play, and every possibility.

Strap in for a play-by-play dissection of the matchups...

Remember the exhilaration of your first big sporting event? That's the feeling I, recaptured on a recent whirlwind trip to Denver, reliving the excitement alongside NBA giants at a Nuggets game. It's a story that began with a casual chat with Jillian, Denver's do-it-all official scorer, and unfurled into an epic adventure packed with family coordination, light rail confrontations, and courtside adrenaline. You won't want to miss the play-by-play of this nostalgic journey, complete with a taser-defused altercation and the electric anticipation of watching Victor Wembanyama's titanic matchup with Nikola Jokic.

Get ready to step behind the...

As we tip off another episode, I'm joined by James, a die-hard Boston Celtics fan whose passion for the team was sparked by none other than Dee Brown. His story takes us back to the '90s, a pivotal time for both the Celtics and young fans like him. We explore the unwavering commitment of the team as they powered through rebuilding phases, all while Boston's fanbase remained as fierce as ever. Whether stationed overseas or nestled in a local pub, James's dedication to the Celtics exemplifies how distance can sometimes amplify the love for the game. We wrap...

From the crack of the bat at Coors Field to the hushed anticipation of a ninth-inning pitch, the love of baseball runs deep in my family—especially for my sister Krista, the Colorado Rockies' superfan who joins me in this special episode. We take you on a nostalgic journey, reminiscing about the days of spring training autograph hunts and the electric atmosphere of the Rockies' MLB debut. Krista's vivid recollection of Eric Young's legendary home run serves as a touchstone for our shared baseball passion, illustrating how those formative moments can spark a lifetime of devotion.

Baseball is...

Get ready to ride the high tide of sports enthusiasm as we unpack the Denver Nuggets' hot streak, including a standout victory that will send the Milwaukee Bucks reeling. Feel the energy as we chuckle over Nikola Jokić's 'night off,' which, let's face it, he deserves after dishing out triple-doubles like they're going out of style. But it's not all laughs—Joel Embiid's injury has us swapping our jest for genuine concern, crossing our fingers for a rapid recovery to keep the NBA's electric rivalry alive. Plus, you won't want to miss the inside scoop on Peyton Wat...

Embark on an emotional rollercoaster with me as we dissect the Denver Nuggets' turbulent five-game journey through the eyes of someone who experienced the adrenaline-pumping highs and gut-wrenching lows firsthand. From the strategic triumph over Boston to the bitter disappointments against Philly and New York, this narrative isn't just about basketball—it's about the heart and soul poured onto the court. As we relive the anticlimactic rematch that left fans and players desiring more, you'll gain insights into what these pivotal games signal for the playoff dreams of the Mile-High City.

Then, we wade into the deeper wa...

Explore the seismic shifts of the NBA midseason with our expert guest, Mason, as we unravel the intricacies of the surprising Knicks and Raptors trade. Feel the tremors of the league as we delve into the repercussions of seeing favorites like RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley swap jerseys, and dissect how the Knicks are shaping up with defensive titan OG Anunoby in their ranks. Experience the raw emotions and strategic gambles that come with such a high-stakes trade, and consider the impact it has on players, fans, and the future of the franchises involved.

Strap in for...

Have you ever witnessed a moment so electrifying that it sends shivers down your spine? That's precisely what unfolded when Nikola Jokić launched that half-court prayer to seal a breathtaking Denver Nuggets victory against the Golden State Warriors. Clutch your seats as I recount the emotional rollercoaster, from Jokić's jaw-dropping first quarter to the Warriors' third-quarter rally and Denver's final victorious surge. I'll spotlight the heroic efforts of Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray, whose performances could very well be the harbingers of a deep playoff run reminiscent of last season's magic. You'll get an insider's look at what th...

Discover the heart and hustle of the Denver Nuggets as they surged through a victorious week, and how their underdog spirit could carry them into a playoff success story. I'll take you courtside to celebrate Jamal Murray's resurgence and marvel at Nikola Jokić's rebounding feat, while also pondering the impact of Aaron Gordon's unexpected injury. As the Nuggets navigate these challenges, find out what it could mean for their team dynamics and playoff dreams.

As the year wraps and new goals beckon, join me in setting intentions that resonate beyond the scoreboard. I'll share my own r...

Ever wondered how a professional sports team can pivot through a season's highs and lows while maintaining an electric atmosphere? Buckle up, Nuggets fans, as I take you through a riveting journey of our favorite Denver team's season—exploring the heady 9-1 start, injury battles, lineup shuffles, and the resurgence led by a healthy Jamal. Celebrate Jokmas with our giveaway winners, Brad and Colin, and get ready to understand the intricate tapestry of teamwork and determination that marks this year's campaign.

This episode is a slam dunk for anyone invested in the Nuggets' narrative or looking to ap...

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history of the Nuggets and the unique holiday that defines us - Jokmas. As Nuggets fans, we're marking the day when everything changed for our team; the day Nikola Jokic was promoted to the starting lineup. This episode takes you back to that fateful day on December 15, 2016, exploring the struggles of a young team, the challenges of managing two promising centers, and the birth of the Nuggets’ game strategy revolving around Jokic.

Join us as we celebrate Jokmas with an exciting giveaway for our listeners. We're offering two $15 Amazon gi...