In the wake of the Denver Nuggets’ heart-wrenching defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 7, head coach Michael Malone’s post-game press conference took a fiery turn. The Nuggets, who had led by as many as 20 points, saw their season come to an abrupt end with a 98-90 loss, dashing their hopes of progressing in the playoffs.
The tension in the room was palpable as reporters gathered for Malone’s comments on the game. It was then that a question regarding the difficulty of absorbing such a loss after a significant lead triggered Malone’s ire. His response, laced with frustration and a choice expletive, underscored the bitter disappointment of a season concluded prematurely.
“The season’s over. That’s what’s hard. F**k being up 20. The season’s over. You don’t understand that. The season’s over. It’s hard. Stupid ass questions,” Malone retorted.
Michael Malone:
“The seasons over. That’s what’s hard. Fu*k being up by 20…Stupid ass questions.”
(h/t @cjzero)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 20, 2024
This exchange quickly became the subject of discussion among fans and media alike, highlighting the intense pressure and emotional toll that comes with the high-stakes environment of the NBA playoffs. Malone’s blunt dismissal of the question reflects not just personal frustration but also the collective dismay of a team that had championship aspirations.
The Timberwolves’ remarkable comeback, the largest second-half rally in a Game 7 in NBA playoff history, was led by Anthony Edwards, who overcame a sluggish start to finish with 16 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. The Nuggets, on the other hand, witnessed their defense crumble in the second half, a stark contrast to the dominance displayed earlier in the game.
As the Timberwolves prepare to face the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Finals, the Nuggets are left to reflect on a season that could have been. For Malone, the abrupt end to a promising campaign was a bitter pill to swallow, and his post-game comments will likely resonate as a moment of raw, unfiltered emotion in the annals of NBA history.
