Doug Moe, Nuggets Legend, Passes Away at 87
Doug Moe, a pioneering figure in the ABA and a beloved, often irreverent coach of the Denver Nuggets during the 1980s, died Tuesday at the age of 87. The news was confirmed by Ron Zappolo, a longtime Denver TV personality and friend of Moe’s and reported by the Associated Press.
A Colorful Career Spanning ABA and NBA
Moe’s coaching record stood at 628-529 over 15 seasons, including stints with the San Antonio Spurs and Philadelphia 76ers. While he never secured an NBA championship, his most memorable run came in 1985 with the Denver Nuggets, falling short against the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference finals. He was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1988.
More Than Wins and Losses: A Unique Coaching Style
Beyond the win-loss record, Moe will be remembered for his innovative motion offense and his entertaining, often colorful, presence on the sidelines. His Denver teams consistently led the league in scoring in the early 1980s, rarely relying on set plays. He was known for his unique way of addressing players, often referring to those he favored as “stiffs” – or worse – using strong language to motivate them.
Early Life and Playing Career
Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1938, Moe’s basketball journey began with playing under assumed names to gain eligibility in New York basketball circles. He played college basketball at North Carolina alongside Larry Brown, earning All-America honors twice. His college career was cut short due to a point-shaving scandal, for which he refused to participate in fixing games, receiving a $75 payment for attending a meeting.
Moe transitioned to a five-year ABA career, becoming a three-time All-Star before knee issues forced an early retirement. He then worked as an assistant coach alongside Brown with the Carolina Cougars and later the Denver Nuggets during their ABA days.
Return to Denver and Lasting Legacy
Moe’s time with the Nuggets marked a golden era for the franchise, despite never reaching the NBA Finals. His teams featured high-scoring duos like Alex English and Kiki VanDeWeghe, who in 1982-83 became the only pair of teammates to finish 1-2 in league scoring since then. The 1983 game between the Nuggets and Pistons, ending 186-184, remains the highest-scoring game in NBA history.
Even after his retirement in 1990, Moe remained a beloved figure in Denver, eventually returning to the Nuggets as an assistant coach. He was known for his self-deprecating humor and his ability to connect with players and fans alike.
A Unique Personality Remembered
Ron Zappolo described Moe as a uniquely kind and important figure in Denver sports history. Moe’s approach to coaching, often unconventional and always entertaining, left a lasting impression on the game and those who knew him.
FAQ
What was Doug Moe’s NBA coaching record?
Doug Moe’s NBA coaching record was 628-529 over 15 seasons.
What was Doug Moe known for as a coach?
He was known for his motion offense, colorful personality, and leading high-scoring teams.
When did Doug Moe win NBA Coach of the Year?
Doug Moe won NBA Coach of the Year in 1988.
Where did Doug Moe play college basketball?
He played college basketball at North Carolina.
Did you know? Doug Moe once ordered his team to stop playing defense in a game to allow the opposing team to break the scoring record, resulting in a fine, and suspension.
Explore more articles on NBA history and legendary coaches here.
