Aaron Gordon reflects on his past disdain for Denver
It’s hard to imagine now, but Aaron Gordon wasn’t always enamored with the idea of playing for the Denver Nuggets. In a candid conversation on Cam Johnson’s podcast, *The Old Man and the Three*, Gordon took a trip down memory lane, sharing insights about his trade from the Orlando Magic to the Nuggets back in 2021.
A rocky start in the Mile High City
Before becoming a key player for the Nuggets, Gordon had limited exposure to Denver. Competing in the Eastern Conference, he faced the Nuggets only a couple of times each season. Unfortunately, those encounters left a sour taste in his mouth. Recalling his past experiences, Gordon admitted, “I hated playing in Denver, coming from Orlando. I was like, man, get me out of here. I can’t wait for this game to be over.”
This sentiment was not just a passing remark; it highlighted his discomfort during those games in the high altitude. One particular matchup stood out to him, where he found himself eager for the game to conclude, a stark contrast to how he feels about the city today.
Limited knowledge of the Nuggets
Gordon’s familiarity with the Nuggets was anything but extensive. He noted that his interactions with the team were fleeting, characterized by frustrating losses. “We would play them strong until… like three, four minutes to go, and then we would find a way to lose, or they would find a way to win,” he explained. This pattern of near victories that slipped away only added to his lack of appreciation for the team and the city.
Today, however, his perspective has shifted dramatically. As a pivotal member of the Nuggets, Gordon’s experiences have transformed, and he has embraced the culture of Denver, making it hard to reconcile with his previous feelings.
From disdain to devotion
Gordon’s journey from reluctance to love for Denver encapsulates a broader narrative of adaptation and growth in the NBA. It speaks to how players can evolve in their perceptions of teams and cities, especially once they become integral parts of them. As he continues to thrive in the Mile High City, Gordon’s story serves as a reminder that initial impressions can often be misleading.
