Denver Nuggets raise NBA Championship banner at Ball Arena

Denver Nuggets prepare to hang championship banner before taking on LA Lakers

The Denver Nuggets kicked off their season Tuesday at Ball Arena with a win against the Los Angeles Lakers, who the Nuggets beat in the Western Conference Finals last season before moving on to, and ultimately winning, the NBA Finals for the first time in franchise history.

To celebrate their NBA world champion status, the Nuggets hung the championship banner in Ball Arena. The day was marked with events including music from The Chainsmokers, hoop-shooting challenges for fans, giveaways and more.

Even CU Buffs stars Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter were seen shooting hoops and taking selfies on the court.

Altitude sportscaster and former CBS Colorado sports anchor Vic Lombardi spoke first, asking fans, "can you believe we were standing right here 134 days ago and we watched the Nuggets strike gold that night?"

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver presented the team with their championship rings.

"Nuggets fans, you've waited a long time for this moment," he said.

Jamal Murray #27, head coach Michael Malone and Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets look on as their championship banner is raised before the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Ball Arena on Oct. 24, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. Justin Tafoya / Getty Images

Head coach Michael Malone called Nuggets nation the best fans in the league before saying they were going to get a second championship ring this season.

After rings were handed out, a video played on the jumbotron at Ball Arena showing them up close.

The banner was hung just after 5:15 p.m. as Queen's "We are the Champions" played. 

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