Longtime Nuggets Coach Doug Moe Dies at 87

Moe led Denver to nine straight playoff appearances and was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1988.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 10:55am

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Doug Moe, the longtime head coach of the Denver Nuggets who turned the team into one of the NBA's most entertaining and high-scoring squads in the 1980s, has died at the age of 87. Moe coached the Nuggets from 1980 to 1990, compiling 432 wins and leading the team to nine consecutive playoff appearances. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1988.

Why it matters

Moe's fast-paced, high-scoring teams made the Nuggets must-see entertainment in the 1980s, and his coaching legacy has had a lasting impact on the franchise. His franchise record for wins stood until 2024, underscoring his significance in Nuggets history.

The details

Moe's Nuggets teams were known for their up-tempo, run-and-gun style of play, often scoring in the 120s and 130s. Denver led the NBA in scoring six times under Moe's leadership. The team's deepest playoff run came in 1985 when they made it to the Western Conference Finals before losing to the dominant Los Angeles Lakers 'Showtime' squad.

  • Moe coached the Nuggets from 1980 to 1990.
  • He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1988.
  • Moe's franchise record for wins stood until 2024 when Michael Malone passed it.

The players

Doug Moe

The longtime head coach of the Denver Nuggets from 1980 to 1990, who led the team to nine straight playoff appearances and was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1988.

Bill Hanzlik

A former player under Moe who posted on X that Moe passed away peacefully with his wife Jane at his side.

George Karl

Moe's former assistant coach with the Nuggets from 2003 to 2008, who posted on X that Moe was his 'big brother' and that he will miss him.

Michael Malone

The current Nuggets head coach who surpassed Moe's franchise record for wins in 2024.

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What they’re saying

“Doug Moe was my big brother. I am sad today. I will miss him.”

— George Karl (X)

The takeaway

Doug Moe's legacy as the Nuggets' pioneering head coach in the 1980s, known for his fast-paced, high-scoring teams, has left an indelible mark on the franchise and the NBA. His coaching prowess and innovative approach to the game made the Nuggets must-see entertainment during his tenure and cemented his place as a Denver basketball legend.