Legendary Nuggets Coach Doug Moe Dies at 87

Moe was known for his irreverent style during the team's high-scoring 1980s era.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 5:31pm

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Doug Moe, the former head coach of the Denver Nuggets who led the team to great success in the 1980s with his up-tempo, high-scoring style, has died at the age of 87. Moe's son David announced his passing, describing him as a "one-of-a-kind leader and person" who was integral to the Nuggets' glory years.

Why it matters

Moe's tenure as Nuggets coach in the 1980s is considered one of the most successful and exciting periods in the franchise's history. His fast-paced, free-flowing offensive system produced some of the highest-scoring teams in NBA history and made the Nuggets must-see TV for basketball fans.

The details

Moe coached the Nuggets from 1980 to 1990, compiling a 432-357 record and leading the team to the playoffs seven times. His teams were known for their up-tempo style, with the Nuggets leading the league in scoring for several seasons. Moe was also known for his rumpled appearance and irreverent, sometimes R-rated coaching style on the sidelines.

  • Doug Moe coached the Denver Nuggets from 1980 to 1990.
  • Moe passed away on February 17, 2026 at the age of 87.

The players

Doug Moe

The former head coach of the Denver Nuggets, known for his up-tempo, high-scoring teams and irreverent coaching style in the 1980s.

David Moe

The son of Doug Moe, who announced his father's passing.

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What they’re saying

“Doug Moe was a one-of-a-kind leader and person who spearheaded one of the most successful and exciting decades in Nuggets history.”

— David Moe, Son of Doug Moe (Yahoo Daily News)

The takeaway

Moe's tenure as Nuggets coach in the 1980s is remembered as a golden era for the franchise, with his fast-paced, high-scoring teams captivating basketball fans across the country and establishing the Nuggets as one of the most entertaining teams in the NBA.