For the very first time in their history, the Denver Nuggets are on the biggest stage. Two time MVP Nikola Jokic, after some close calls, was able to will his forces. They have looked nothing short of sublime, crushing each of their Western Conference opponents. Their advantage lies in their unity, rigorously honed talent, and of course, the un-selfish basketball they play. They are yet to have suffered a single loss at home in the playoffs. Jokic and Co have ensured Ball Arena is a fortress ahead of the NBA Finals.

However, just before the clash with Miami Heat, another claim emerged – an advantage Denver holds apart from their star power and threatening offense. But Charles Barkley couldn’t comprehend the non-basketball claim for one simple reason.

Shaquille O’Neal reveals his dirty secrets after Denver ‘altitude’ advantage theory gains traction

Home fans and the Ball Arena itself have this advantage stapled all over the place. The one distinct fact about Denver, is how their buildings are located 5280 feet above sea level. The number is painted near the free throw line to remind opponents of the same. Recent speculations have Denver being home to thinner air due to its altitude.

Many believe that players could be subject to fatigue, cramps, headaches and other hindrances with the drier air. But Nikola Jokic and others hold the upper hand of being accustomed to such conditions, according to the theory. While discussing these claims, Shaquille O’Neal admitted to being weighed down by Denver’s unusually high altitude. Further, to counter the side effects, he plotted a scheme.

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“Because I used to get so tired, I used to foul shave. You know what foul shave is? Get two quick fouls, you can sit next to coach and get some rest. Yeah, it is a thing, Chuck.” said the Big Diesel.

But no matter how much Grant Hill and Shaquille O’Neal tried, Charles Barkley wasn’t on-board with the ‘altitude advantage’. In his words, he felt “‘It’s the stupidest thing ever,” and the reason he feels so is the Nuggets’ postseason history (or lack of it!)

“You Know, the reason I don’t think it’s true, I just don’t remember all those Denver Nuggets championships. This the first time they ever been in the Finals. They got a good damn team. Listen, these guys are the best athletes in the world. The notion that breathing gonna dictate who win, if that’s the Denver would have… This the first time they ever been to the Finals!” 

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The NBA Hall of Famer admitted to being tired of such “bogus” claims discrediting the current Nuggets’ rise to the top. To delve deeper, let’s look at what co-finalists Miami Heat have to say about the ‘advantage’.

Miami Heat is not concerned with Denver’s height

Whether it affects the visiting teams or not, Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra vowed to have no excuses. He resonates with Charles Barkley and feels it will all come down to who plays the better ball.

“If Denver wants to tip this thing off at the top of Everest, we’ll do that,” said Spoelstra according to the Denver Post.

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Do you think the Miami Heat will struggle to adjust like Shaquille O’Neal or is Barkley right in ripping the notion? Let us know your views in the comments below!