The Denver Nuggets have welcomed Tim Hardaway Jr. as a vital addition to their roster for the 2025-26 NBA season. Acquired at the veteran minimum during the offseason, Hardaway has quickly established himself as a critical role player, showcasing his shooting prowess and leadership skills. His performance has been particularly noteworthy, as he ranks among the top seven players in the league, shooting over 45% from three-point range on at least 75 attempts.
Hardaway’s journey to the Nuggets has been marked by a strong foundation laid during his time at the University of Michigan, where he played under coach John Beilein. Beilein recalls a significant moment from a summer AAU game in 2009, where he observed Hardaway’s mature response while sitting on the bench. Rather than sulking, Hardaway remained supportive of his teammates, demonstrating a level of maturity that would define his career. “He handled the whole thing well,” Beilein said, reflecting on Hardaway’s character.
As the Nuggets navigate the season, Hardaway’s contributions have become increasingly evident. With an average of 11.1 points per game, he has emerged as a vital scoring option off the bench. Coach David Adelman praised Hardaway’s ability to blend seamlessly into the team dynamic, stating, “Tim’s a guy you’d like to play pickup basketball with.” His presence has helped form one of the most capable second units the franchise has seen in years.
The Nuggets’ roster boasts a rich array of talent, including Cam Johnson, Bruce Brown, and Jonas Valanciunas. Hardaway’s sharp shooting complements their offensive strategies, providing a perimeter threat that keeps defenses guessing. His ability to maintain confidence during lulls in scoring is crucial as the team strives for another championship.
Hardaway’s journey has not been without challenges. He faced moments of self-doubt throughout his career, particularly early on as he adjusted to the pressures of playing in high-stakes environments. Beilein noted that Hardaway had to learn to trust his teammates, a skill that has served him well in the NBA. “There were times in practice where he would get upset if somebody missed a shot,” former teammate Jon Horford shared, emphasizing Hardaway’s competitive nature.
Despite the pressures, Hardaway has thrived. His time at Michigan, where he played in the NCAA Final Four, equipped him with valuable experience. Beilein remembers a game against Ohio State, where Hardaway delivered a series of impressive three-pointers that solidified his reputation as a clutch player. “He was focused. So I wouldn’t say anything to him. He got in his own zone,” Beilein recounted.
As Hardaway adjusts to the NBA’s demands, his shooting volume has shifted. Currently, he is attempting his fewest three-pointers per game since the 2016-17 season, yet he is hitting a career-high percentage. This strategic adjustment reflects his maturity and understanding of the game, highlighting his growth as a player.
The camaraderie within the Nuggets is enhanced by Hardaway’s veteran presence. As the oldest player on the roster at 33 years old, he has embraced the role of a mentor. Peyton Watson, a younger teammate, appreciates Hardaway’s approach, describing him as “very routine-based, very professional and loves the game.” This blend of experience and humor makes Hardaway a respected figure in the locker room.
The Nuggets are optimistic about Hardaway’s ability to maintain his performance throughout the season. While his current shooting success is impressive, the team recognizes the importance of his emotional resilience during the inevitable ups and downs of the NBA season. Hardaway’s history of overcoming challenges speaks to his character and determination.
Reflecting on his career, Hardaway acknowledges the lessons learned during his college years. He fondly recalls the camaraderie shared with teammates during tough times, including navigating life as a student-athlete without the benefits of the current name, image, and likeness opportunities. “That was such an important part of my life, going through college as just a regular guy,” he noted, highlighting the value of those formative experiences.
As the Nuggets aim for success this season, Tim Hardaway Jr. stands out not just for his shooting ability but for the leadership and resilience he brings to the team. His journey from a young player at Michigan to a seasoned veteran in the NBA exemplifies a commitment to growth and teamwork, making him an invaluable asset to the Denver Nuggets as they pursue their championship aspirations.
