From Coaching to Commentary: Former Nuggets Coach Michael Malone Joins ESPN for Western Finals Coverage

In a surprising turn of events just three games before the conclusion of the regular season, the Nuggets chose to part ways with Michael Malone, their most successful coach in franchise history.

Despite this unexpected change, Denver secured a spot in the Playoffs, achieving three consecutive victories that propelled them to the Western Conference semifinals. Although their journey ended there, Malone has found a new avenue to remain connected to the sport—through broadcasting.

ESPN has revealed that the 2023 NBA champion coach will participate in their coverage of the Western Conference Finals, where the Minnesota Timberwolves will face off against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who emerged victorious against Malone’s former team in a challenging seven-game matchup.

Malone will feature in the “NBA Countdown” pregame and halftime studio show, which will be held on location for each game in the series. He will collaborate with Malika Andrews, Stephen A. Smith, Bob Myers, Kendrick Perkins, and Shams Charania as part of the broadcast team.

Michael Malone, who led the Nuggets to their inaugural NBA championship in 2023 and holds the record for the most career wins in the franchise’s history, was unexpectedly dismissed along with general manager Calvin Booth during the final week of the regular season, following a decade of coaching the Colorado team.