(Picture by Ethan Miller/Getty Photos)
The Denver Nuggets confronted an uncommon state of affairs of their first NBA Cup sport of this season, taking the court docket with out two key figures.
Not solely was MVP Nikola Jokic absent because of private issues, however head coach Michael Malone was additionally lacking from his acquainted spot on the sidelines.
The explanation? A father’s dedication to witness a particular second in his daughter’s life.
Malone stayed in Denver to assist his daughter Bridget Malone, a proficient senior outdoors hitter at Mountain Vista Excessive Faculty, as she competed within the state volleyball match.
Her athletic prowess has already secured her future, with a dedication to play faculty volleyball at North Carolina.
Denver assistant coach Davis Adelman shared a heartfelt perspective on Malone’s determination previous to main the workforce towards the New Orleans Pelicans.
“That’s really cool, and from being a coach’s son and growing up around this, and the things you miss as a dad, really cool that he’s there. That’s something you don’t want to miss. It’s one game. Whatever. That’s really important to her. It’s really important to their family. So I’m glad he’s there,” Adelman mentioned, by way of Bennett Durando of The Denver Publish.
Will Malone be watching Nuggets on his cellphone from playoff volleyball sport? David Adelman: “I hope not. I hope he’s watching his daughter play. That’s really cool, and from being a coach’s son and growing up around this, and the things you miss as a dad, really cool he’s there.”
The timing is noteworthy as Malone stands only one victory shy of matching Doug Moe’s franchise report of 432 regular-season wins.
Malone’s confidence in Adelman’s capabilities doubtless made his determination simpler.
The assistant has already caught the attention of a number of NBA groups, having interviewed with the Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers over the past spherical of teaching modifications.
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Nuggets Present Replace On Nikola Jokic For Friday’s Sport