“He Busts My A**”: Nuggets Superstar Recalls Getting Outwitted by Paul Pierce During His Rookie Season “Playing Chess”

Published 12/15/2023, 2:41 PM EST

Paul Pierce is more famously known for his stint with the Boston Celtics. But the Nuggets superstar, Aaron Gordon has a memorable experience facing off against ‘The Truth’. The whole incident happened while Pierce was with the Washington Wizards. Completing a year with the Nets, he had signed a two-year $11 million contract with the Wizards in 2014.

But he didn’t finish his tenure with them, instead opting out in the second year to become a free agent. Yet in that short time, he added at least five new honors. And provide the then-Orlando Magic rookie with an unforgettable experience.

28-year-old Nuggets’ star reminisces Paul Pierce-laden ‘NBA welcome’

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When the Denver Nuggets signed Aaron Gordon in 2021, they wouldn’t have expected him to be such a key contributor for their championship run. It was a surprise, yet much welcomed. But the skills that he displays now didn’t come easy. Talking to the Knuckleheads crew, Gordon remembers the exact moment he got cooked and by whom.

“The Truth,” he says laughing. There was no doubt as to his athleticism and with that confidence, Gordon hoped to get one over the veteran guard—big mistake. Not giving time to even register what happened, the 6’7 Finals MVP posted a wide-open three over the rookie Gordon.

“I was out there playing checkers, he was playing chess. He bust my a**!”, he finishes chuckling. That’s the best NBA welcome right there.

How Aaron Gordon turned out to be the fortune cookie for Denver

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Aaron Gordon’s game-high 27 points in the Nuggets’ win against the Miami Heat in the NBA Finals was a lightbulb moment for Denver. Being the No. 4 pick, Aaron Gordon knew what was expected of him. And that was primarily scoring and star power.

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While he tried his best to live up to those expectations in his time with Magic, it was never really his strength. But with his arrival to a team that had an organized hierarchy, Gordon thrived doing what he always wanted – defense. The Nuggets’ playoffs are a perfect example of his defensive acumen.

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According to ESPN Stats & Information Research, “opponents shot just 39.8% from the field and 27.1% from 3 with Gordon as their primary defender in 19 playoff games.” Clearly, the Nuggets hit gold with Gordon. Knowing what exactly they needed to do to take advantage of his skills was a win-win for all parties.

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“Not only is there more to life than basketball, there’s a lot more to basketball than basketball” - Jackson had a simple philosophy when he was coaching the Lakers. He wanted everyone to succeed and grow in the service of something bigger than themselves. This is what struck me the most.

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Anuj Jacob

“He Busts My A**”: Nuggets Superstar Recalls Getting Outwitted by Paul Pierce During His Rookie Season “Playing Chess”

28-year-old Nuggets’ star reminisces Paul Pierce-laden ‘NBA welcome’

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How Aaron Gordon turned out to be the fortune cookie for Denver