By Emilio Abad
Updated May 15, 2025 | 4:48 PM EDT
As the Denver Nuggets prepare for a crucial Game 6 showdown against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2024–25 Western Conference Semifinals, all eyes are on Nikola Jokić and his quest to push the series to a decisive Game 7. But amid the drama on the court, a question from fans—especially those outside of Colorado—keeps popping up:
What does “5280” mean on the Nuggets’ jerseys?
The answer? It’s a symbol of pride — and altitude.
The Mile High Identity
The number 5280 isn’t just a decorative detail. It marks Denver’s elevation above sea level — 5,280 feet, or exactly one mile high. It’s a nod to the city’s geography, woven into the very identity of the Nuggets and their home arena. Denver is the highest elevation city in the NBA, and “5280” serves as a constant reminder to opponents that they’re not just playing against a team — they’re playing against the altitude.
It’s a number that appears prominently across this year’s City Edition uniforms and even on the Ball Arena hardwood, just above the free-throw line. During broadcasts, you might spot it flipped upside down as “0825” — an Easter egg for those paying close attention.
Uniforms That Tell a Story
The Nuggets have long embraced their unique hometown roots through design. Back in 2018–19, they introduced their “Mile High City” Statement Edition jerseys — bold blue and gold with the nickname splashed across the chest. That identity evolved into the striking “5280” kits in later years, featuring yellow lettering over black backgrounds with subtle mountain graphics.
This season, the Nuggets have gone retro-futurist. Their latest City Edition look features a clean white base with rainbow accents — a tribute to the beloved skyline uniforms of the 1980s — now paired with the powerful “5280” badge, symbolizing not just heritage, but hometown resilience.
A Must-Win Mile High Moment
Denver returns to Ball Arena trailing 3–2 in the series, after dropping Game 5 on the road despite a heroic performance by Nikola Jokić. The reigning MVP poured in 44 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, and two steals in a losing effort. While Jamal Murray added 28 points of his own, the rest of the roster has struggled to match the moment. Michael Porter Jr. continues a cold stretch, and Aaron Gordon — who had been key earlier in the series — was held to a quiet 13-point outing.
Still, there’s no better place for a bounce-back than home. With 19,000+ fans roaring at high altitude and “5280” stitched across their chests, the Nuggets know the pressure — and the pride — of representing the Mile High City.
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