David Adelman has swiftly become a central figure in the NBA coaching landscape, especially as the interim head coach of the Denver Nuggets. His journey from a childhood steeped in basketball tradition to leading an NBA team in the playoffs offers both inspiration and insight into leadership, resilience, and the art of coaching.

Growing Up in a Basketball Family

Born into basketball royalty, David Adelman is the son of Hall of Fame coach Rick Adelman. Growing up, he absorbed the nuances of the game from locker rooms to dinner tables. While he was a ball boy for the Portland Trail Blazers, David witnessed the highs and lows of the NBA up close, learning valuable lessons from legends like Phil Jackson and Magic Johnson. These early experiences shaped his approach to coaching—one that values every player on the roster and recognizes the humanity behind the athlete.

His perseverance and empathy were honed not just in arenas, but through personal trials. A childhood health scare gave Adelman a unique outlook on adversity, making him more attuned to the different challenges his players face. For a deeper exploration of his formative years and coaching philosophy, check out the detailed feature on how David Adelman grew up in a coaching family—and why this is his time.

Making His Mark in Denver

David Adelman joined the Denver Nuggets coaching staff in 2017. His promotion to interim head coach came abruptly, following the surprising dismissal of Michael Malone with only three games left in the 2024-25 regular season. Despite the pressure of filling big shoes in a playoff race, Adelman quickly won over players and team leadership alike.

Under his direction, the Nuggets closed out the regular season strong, clinching the Western Conference's No. 4 seed, then pushing deep into the playoffs. Players like Aaron Gordon and Jamal Murray openly praised his strategic thinking and motivational style. Superstar Nikola Jokic outlined how Adelman "changed the energy" of the team, bringing focus and belief at a critical time. Read more about Jokic's endorsement of Adelman.

Adelman's adaptability was clear in his bold tactical moves, such as employing varied defensive schemes that kept opponents guessing. These adjustments reflected both his NBA heritage and his willingness to innovate.

Earning Respect and Support

Adelman's blend of technical expertise and emotional intelligence has set a new tone for the Nuggets. The support for his permanent appointment is widespread across the locker room. After the team’s tough playoff exit, even rival coaches commended his leadership under challenging circumstances. As ESPN’s in-depth report on Adelman’s playoff success details, the buy-in from players has been remarkable, fostering unity and resilience through adversity.

His journey demonstrates that trust and communication matter just as much as Xs and Os. By treating every player with respect, Adelman has cultivated an environment where teamwork thrives.

The Road Ahead: Will Adelman Be the Nuggets' Next Head Coach?

As of the end of the 2024-25 season, the Denver Nuggets have not made a final announcement about their head coaching position. However, David Adelman’s leadership, ability to inspire, and strategic acumen have made him a leading candidate for the permanent job. Both his players and NBA observers are hopeful to see him continue shaping the team’s future.

Conclusion: A Coach Built for the Moment

David Adelman's story goes beyond basketball. It’s about rising to challenges with determination and leading with empathy. His time as the Denver Nuggets’ interim head coach has showcased not only his basketball IQ, but also his ability to unite and elevate a team. Fans and players alike are watching closely, eager to see the next chapter in the Adelman legacy unfold.