George Karl isn’t the only winning executive on the Nuggets roster
While the criticism of the NBA’s choice for the top Executive of the Year is rolling in quick, the people of the Mile High area aren't complaining. After an unexpected first-round exit from the playoffs, the fans in Denver needed a pick-me-up. While hearing their coach, George Karl, was named Coach of the Year was a push in the right direction, Thursday’s announcement that Masai Ujiri was voted Executive of the Year (EOY) only helped to heal Nuggets fans’ pain. It reminded the Mile High we have a good team with good brass behind them.
While the award was a huge sign of gratitude for a man who had to endure the Carmelo Anthony Saga in his first year on the job, Ujiri did accept his award with a little reluctance. After being given the Trophy from team President Josh Kroenke, Ujiri said, “It’s a little bittersweet for me. I would trade [it] to be playing right now.” The Nuggets, and their fans, are in agreement.
Masai Ujiri is the first African-born GM in NBA history, as well as in any major American sports. Before heading to Denver, Ujiri was born in Zaria, Nigeria. He is the son of a doctor and nursing educationalist. After growing to the ripe height of 6 feet, 4 inches, Ujiri came to the U.S. to play basketball for Bismarck State and Montana State. He played six years professionally in Europe. After giving up balling himself, Ujiri worked his way up the ranks as an unpaid scout in Orlando, an assistant GM in Toronto, and finally, the GM of the Denver Nuggets.
While the award is a huge feat for the big man, the Nuggets are in no spot to take a rest. According to Ujiri, “ We've got work to do. I think we’re beginning to get over our emotional state…you have to move on.” The Nuggets will spend their off-season gearing up for another playoff shot, and trying to sign defensive ace Andre Iguodala to a long-term contract.
Photo courtesy of CP Africa
