In a turn of events that stunned the NBA community, Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone has reportedly been fired, and the reactions are pouring in — including one from an unexpected but deeply personal source: his tattoo artist.
When you spend hours in the chair talking ink, life, and hoops, you tend to build a bond. So, when news broke that Malone was let go, his longtime tattoo artist didn’t hold back in sharing thoughts that reflect both respect and disbelief.
“Didn’t See It Coming” — Artist Shares Honest Reaction
The artist, known for inking Malone’s now-iconic sleeve, took to Instagram shortly after the news broke, writing:
“Man… this one hits different. Coach M wasn’t just a client — he was a vibe. Realest guy I’ve ever worked with. Didn’t see this coming at all.”
He added a picture of Malone getting tattooed mid-season, captioned:
“Focused on the game, even while getting inked. That’s who he was.”
A Deeper Bond Than Just Ink
According to close insiders, Malone often used tattoo sessions as downtime to clear his mind and reflect — especially during playoff stretches. His artist, who’s been working with NBA players for over a decade, said that Malone’s sessions were always about more than just art:
“He’d talk about his players like they were family. He really loved that team. You could feel it.”
This behind-the-scenes glimpse into Malone’s personality paints a picture of a passionate, grounded coach — one whose dismissal feels like more than just a business decision.
The NBA World Reacts
The tattoo artist isn’t alone. Players, fans, and former colleagues have been voicing frustration and sadness since the announcement, especially considering Malone helped lead the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA championship just last season.
Many are now wondering if this was a hasty move or part of a bigger shift behind the scenes.
What’s Next for Malone?
While his future in the NBA is still unclear, one thing’s for sure: Michael Malone won’t be forgotten any time soon — on the court or in the ink world. As his tattoo artist cheekily hinted in a story post:
“Wherever Coach lands next… you know I’ll be there with the needles ready.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Was Michael Malone officially fired from the Nuggets?
Reports suggest he was let go, though no official press release has confirmed the full details yet.
2. Who is Michael Malone’s tattoo artist?
While the artist hasn’t been publicly named, he’s known in NBA circles for working with multiple players and staff, including Malone.
3. What tattoos does Michael Malone have?
He reportedly has several pieces tied to basketball, family, and personal inspiration, mostly on his arms.
4. Why was Malone fired after winning a championship?
The reasoning is still unclear, though speculation includes front office conflicts, team direction, or playoff performance.
5. Will Michael Malone coach another NBA team soon?
Given his track record, many believe Malone will be quickly picked up by another franchise in need of leadership.