Between the Denver Nuggets’ trip to South Beach on Wednesday and the 2023 NBA finals, Michael Malone must have heard the phrase “Heat Culture” one too many times.
Following Denver’s 100–88 victory over the Miami Heat, Malone discussed his group’s selflessness by highlighting a unique in-game moment from the matchup.
The Nuggets coach explained how Jamal Murray and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope told their coach to let teammate Reggie Jackson stay on the court and push through his recent slump. This led to Jackson scoring seven straight points in the fourth quarter beginning when Denver held just a five-point lead.
While discussing his team’s selflessness, the coach made sure to emphasize that the Nuggets, much like Miami, have their own unique culture.
“Part of culture—because we do have a culture in Denver, as well—part of our culture is being selfless, getting over yourself,” Malone stated. “And I think that’s another example of how our team is always getting over the individual and thinking about the collective.”
Coach Michael Malone sounds off on Denver's unselfish culture after their win in Miami 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/T6A2R5vB50
— NBA (@NBA) March 14, 2024
There’s no question Malone and the Nuggets have built a group with a unique approach that’s thrived under his watch. And the coach made it very well known in his postgame press conference that “Heat Culture” isn’t the only culture in the NBA.