BREAKING: Michael Malone Makes Strong Nikola Jokic Statement After Backlash From Nuggets Fans
Former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone congratulates center Nikola Jokic (15).
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
The Denver Nuggets stunned the basketball world right before the NBA playoffs when they announced the team's decision to fire head coach Michael Malone.
This was the same man who led Denver to their first franchise championship in 2023, and the fact that he was relieved of his post with just three games remaining in the regular season added another layer of drama to the unexpected turn of events.
Malone has since joined ESPN's broadcast crew for the NBA playoffs, and the 53-year-old got the chance to speak in front of the camera on Thursday night ahead of Game 2 between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Malone was asked to share his thoughts on Nikola Jokic losing the MVP title to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, which prompted a strong statement from the former Nuggets shot-caller.
"I did vote for him again this year, if I had to vote," Malone said. "I want to make sure the people of Denver know that, because right now I'm getting a lot of heat back home. "
Former Nuggets coach, Michael Malone, attempting to remind the nuggets fan base he’s loyal- amidst the backlash.
“I did vote for Nikola Jokić (for MVP) this year if I had a vote. I want to make sure the people of Denver know that. Because I’m getting a lot of heat back home.” pic.twitter.com/U57mh4f0Fg
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) May 23, 2025
Malone revealed that he's been getting some backlash from Denver fans, which is why he felt he had to publicly announce his support for Jokic in the recent MVP race.
As Malone said, however, he did not get the chance to vote this year, but he made it clear that he firmly believes Jokic is the rightful MVP.
Malone spent 10 years at the helm in Denver before the front office decided to move in another direction. During his time with the Nuggets, the Queens, New York native amassed a 471-327 record. He was named Western Conference Coach of the Month on two separate occasions.