The Denver Nuggets, reigning NBA champions, are poised for another title run after clinching a victory against the Los Angeles Lakers in a gentleman’s sweep. Jamal Murray’s game-winning shot sealed the deal, propelling the Nuggets forward. Among their roster is former Kansas basketball standout Christian Braun, who now has a shot at back-to-back rings.
Braun, who solidified his role in the Nuggets’ rotation last season, showcased his skills in all 82 games under Head Coach Mike Malone. Averaging 20.2 minutes per game, Braun contributed 7.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while maintaining a 46.0% field goal accuracy. His impactful presence off the bench and defensive prowess have been notable attributes.
In the recent Lakers series, Braun appeared in all five games, although facing challenges with his shooting accuracy, recording a 36.4% field goal percentage and zero successful 3-pointers. However, he managed to average 3.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, and contributed with a block across the series.
Last season, Braun joined the ranks of elite players by becoming the 10th Jayhawk alum since the ABA merger to win an NBA Finals. He also became only the fourth KU player to achieve championships at both the NCAA and NBA levels. Notably, he is among the fifth players in history to secure NBA and NCAA titles consecutively, marking his achievement as part of an illustrious group.
The Nuggets are set to face the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round, a team they defeated 4-1 in the previous year’s playoffs. Despite Minnesota’s impressive performance this season, clinching the third seed in the Western Conference, the upcoming matchup promises to be an exciting challenge for Denver.
Notably, Braun is among seven former Kansas basketball players who made it to this season’s playoffs. While some, like Udoka Azubuike and Joel Embiid, have been eliminated, others, including Braun, remain in contention, showcasing the Jayhawks’ enduring legacy in the NBA postseason.
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