BREAKING NEWS: DENVER NUGGETS LEGEND DAVID THOMPSON RETURNS AS CO-OWNER IN MONUMENTAL ANNOUNCEMENT
In one of the most unexpected yet heartwarming announcements in recent NBA history, Denver Nuggets owner E. Stanley Kroenke has officially declared that franchise legend David “Skywalker” Thompson will return to the organization — not as a coach, ambassador, or advisor — but as a co-owner. This unprecedented decision reunites one of the most iconic figures in Nuggets history with the team he helped shape in the 1970s, marking a new era in the Mile High City.
In a press conference held at Ball Arena, Kroenke shared the monumental news with fans, media, and former players in attendance. “This is a moment of deep gratitude and historic significance,” Kroenke stated. “David Thompson wasn’t just a basketball icon; he was the soul of this franchise. Today, I am thrilled to announce that David is joining the Denver Nuggets as a co-owner. This move is not only about honoring the past — it’s about building a future that blends legacy with vision.”
Thompson, 70, appeared emotional as he took the podium. “I never imagined a moment like this,” he said, visibly moved. “To go from playing for this great city to owning part of the team… it’s more than a dream. It’s a full-circle blessing.”
The Legacy of Skywalker
David Thompson’s impact on the Denver Nuggets and the game of basketball is profound. Selected No. 1 overall in both the ABA and NBA drafts in 1975, Thompson chose the ABA’s Denver Nuggets and immediately became a star. His aerial acrobatics, high-scoring ability, and charismatic presence earned him the nickname “Skywalker,” and by the end of his rookie season, he had already led the team to the ABA Finals and captured Rookie of the Year honors.
Thompson was a four-time NBA All-Star and a member of the Hall of Fame Class of 1996. His legendary 73-point performance in the final game of the 1978 season remains one of the highest single-game totals in league history. Though personal struggles shortened his career, Thompson’s contribution to the Nuggets and the league at large has never been forgotten.
A New Chapter
The decision to bring Thompson into the ownership group is both symbolic and strategic. Kroenke emphasized that Thompson will have a voice in basketball operations, community initiatives, and player development. “David brings more than just history,” Kroenke explained. “He brings insight, integrity, and inspiration.”
Thompson’s return comes at a time when the Nuggets are still riding high from their 2023 NBA Championship and remain a Western Conference powerhouse. With stars like Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray, the team is poised to contend for years to come. Thompson’s presence at the ownership level adds an emotional and cultural foundation that few franchises in any sport can claim.
“I’ve stayed close to the game all my life,” Thompson shared. “But now, to be in a position to help guide this team — to help inspire young players, connect with the community, and carry the Nuggets forward — is beyond anything I ever expected.”
Player and Fan Reactions
The announcement has already sent shockwaves through the NBA community. Former teammates, current players, and fans alike have taken to social media to celebrate the news.
Nikola Jokić, in a rare public statement, said, “David Thompson is a legend. We feel honored to have him back in the family. He’s part of what made the Nuggets great, and now he’ll help us stay great.”
Former Nuggets teammate Dan Issel chimed in as well: “David was always a leader on the court. Now he gets to lead from the top. This is poetic justice — the right man at the right time.”
Fans outside Ball Arena gathered to show support, many wearing vintage Thompson jerseys and holding up signs reading “Welcome Back, Skywalker!” and “Once a Nugget, Always a Nugget.”
Bridging Generations
The move to involve Thompson in ownership is also part of a broader initiative by the Nuggets to bridge generations of players and fans. The organization recently unveiled plans to honor past legends more prominently, including Thompson, Issel, and Alex English.
Kroenke elaborated, “We want every Nuggets fan — old and new — to feel part of something special. This isn’t just a franchise; it’s a family. And families respect their elders while looking to the future.”
Thompson will also work closely with the team’s charitable foundation, particularly on initiatives focused on youth education, addiction recovery, and sports mentorship — causes close to his heart after overcoming personal struggles post-retirement.
What’s Next?
While Thompson’s ownership stake has not been disclosed publicly, sources confirm that he will take an active role in meetings and strategy sessions moving forward. He is expected to be a visible presence at games, events, and NBA functions.
“Expect to see me a lot more around the team,” Thompson said with a smile. “And don’t be surprised if I have a few pointers for our young guys too — not that they need much help!”
In a league where ownership is typically the domain of billionaires and executives, the addition of a former player — especially one with Thompson’s historical impact — is a rare and refreshing change. It sends a clear message that the Denver Nuggets are committed to honoring their roots while forging ahead with purpose and pride.
Final Thoughts
Today’s announcement is more than a business move — it’s a powerful symbol of redemption, recognition, and reunion. For David Thompson, it is the ultimate testament to a legacy that began with skywalking dunks and now soars even higher in the front office. For the Nuggets, it’s a bold step toward embracing a future that honors its past.
As the crowd stood and applauded Skywalker one more time, the emotion was undeniable: this was history being made — again.
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