Chris Dempsey – Denver Nuggets: Former Forward Reflects on Team’s Evolution Since His Tenure
Chris Dempsey has been a fixture in Denver Nuggets coverage for years, bringing fans closer to their favorite team through his insightful analysis and reporting. Since 2017, Dempsey has been the Nuggets Analyst and Reporter for Altitude Sports. His journey in sports journalism includes significant time at the Denver Post, where he covered not only the Nuggets but also college football at both CU and CSU, the Colorado Rapids, and national college sports.
Before joining Altitude, Dempsey honed his craft at the Denver Post starting in 2003, building relationships throughout the Denver sports landscape. His presence on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram extends his reach, allowing him to connect with fans beyond traditional broadcasts. During the Nuggets’ championship run, Dempsey’s insights became especially valuable as he captured what he described as the “electric” atmosphere enveloping the city.
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Chris Dempsey: A Brief Biography
Chris Dempsey has established himself as a respected figure in Denver sports media, particularly known for his coverage of the Denver Nuggets. His journey from Montbello to becoming the first African-American analyst at Altitude Sports reflects both his professional growth and personal connection to the Denver community.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 18, Chris Dempsey grew up in Northeast Denver in the Montbello neighborhood. This community connection would later prove significant when covering Denver athletes like Paul Millsap, who shares the Montbello connection with Dempsey.
Dempsey attended Montbello High School in the early 1990s, where he played basketball. His early experiences in Denver’s basketball scene helped shape his understanding of the sport from a player’s perspective.
His educational background prepared him for a career in journalism, though he maintained his ties to the Northeast Denver community that shaped him.
Career Beginnings in Sports Journalism
Dempsey built his reputation during his 14-year tenure at The Denver Post, where he covered college athletics including CU, Colorado State, the Colorado Rapids, and the Denver Nuggets. This diverse portfolio demonstrated his versatility as a sports journalist.
His career took a significant turn in 2017 when Altitude Sports hired him, making history as the first African-American analyst on the network. This milestone represented not just personal achievement but progress in media diversity.
Currently, Dempsey serves as a Nuggets Analyst/Reporter for Altitude Sports, where he continues to provide insightful coverage of the team. He maintains an active social media presence on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) where he engages with the Denver sports community.
Denver Nuggets Coverage
Chris Dempsey has built a significant presence in Denver Nuggets media coverage, transitioning from print journalism to becoming a prominent television analyst and reporter. His career has evolved alongside the team’s rise to NBA prominence, establishing him as a trusted voice in Nuggets basketball.
Evolution of Reporting
Dempsey’s journey covering the Denver Nuggets began at the Denver Post in 2003, where he laid the foundation for his basketball reporting career. During his newspaper tenure, he covered multiple beats beyond the Nuggets, including college football and the Colorado Rapids.
In 2017, Dempsey made a pivotal career move when Altitude Sports hired him, marking a transition from print to broadcast media. This move made history as Dempsey became the first African-American analyst on the Altitude Sports Network.
His reporting style has evolved with the changing media landscape, adapting from newspaper deadlines to the immediate demands of television and digital content. As a Nuggets Analyst/Reporter, Dempsey brings deep basketball knowledge and insider access to fans.
Impact on Local Sports Media
Dempsey has become a fixture in Denver’s sports media ecosystem, offering unique perspective during the Nuggets’ ascent to championship contention. His analysis during the team’s 2023 NBA Finals run provided context when he noted “it’s been electric in the city” while discussing Nikola Jokić’s impact.
His position at Altitude Sports has allowed him exclusive access, showcasing his versatility through feature segments like his interview with Nuggets General Manager Calvin Booth. These conversations give fans insight into front office thinking and team direction.
Dempsey’s presence has elevated basketball coverage in a market traditionally dominated by football. His consistent, knowledgeable reporting helps contextualize the Nuggets’ strategies and player development for both casual and hardcore fans.
In-Depth Analyst Work
Chris Dempsey brings insightful analysis to his coverage of the Denver Nuggets, combining statistical knowledge with basketball expertise gained through years of experience. His analytical approach helps fans understand the nuances of the game beyond just scores and highlights.
Player Performance Analysis
Dempsey’s analysis of player performance stands out for its depth and attention to detail. As the first Black analyst for Altitude TV, he brings a unique perspective to player evaluation.
He excels at breaking down individual performances using advanced metrics while making them accessible to casual fans. Dempsey frequently analyzes efficiency ratings, plus/minus impact, and defensive metrics that often go unnoticed.
His player breakdowns include both stars and role players, giving viewers a comprehensive understanding of the entire roster’s contributions. For emerging talents, he identifies development patterns that indicate future potential.
| Player Analysis Strengths | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Statistical breakdown | Shooting efficiency |
| Defensive contributions | Court vision/passing |
| Development tracking | Leadership impact |
| Contract value assessment | Injury management |
Team Strategy and Game Development
When analyzing team strategy, Dempsey leverages his deep knowledge of the Nuggets’ system developed during his tenure as a Nuggets/NBA Insider at Altitude Sports. His commentary explores how coaching decisions impact game outcomes.
Dempsey excels at breaking down offensive sets, highlighting how player movement creates scoring opportunities. His analysis of defensive schemes shows how the Nuggets adapt to different opponents.
He provides context to winning and losing streaks by identifying tactical adjustments made by the coaching staff. Fans particularly value his insights during playoff series when strategic chess matches become crucial.
As a Colorado native and CU graduate, Dempsey understands the local basketball landscape, allowing him to contextualize team development within Denver’s sporting culture. His analysis often explores how roster construction decisions align with the team’s long-term vision.
Contribution to the Broader Sports Community
Chris Dempsey has extended his influence well beyond his role as the Denver Nuggets reporter and analyst for Altitude Sports. His commitment to diversifying voices in sports media and supporting local athletic programs showcases his dedication to the Colorado sports landscape.
Mentorship and Advocacy
As Altitude TV’s first Black analyst, Dempsey has taken his pioneering position seriously. He’s built on the foundation established by Maya Starks, who served as a trailblazing host on Altitude between 2008 and later years.
Dempsey regularly participates in the Play By Play Sports Broadcasting Camps, where he shares his expertise with aspiring journalists. His June 2022 appearance as a guest speaker provided young broadcasters with insights into the industry.
His advocacy extends to pushing for more diverse storytelling in sports media. Industry colleagues note Dempsey’s exceptional ability to connect with players and coaches on deeper levels, a skill that has been instrumental in his career advancement and mentorship capabilities.
Work with the Colorado Rapids
Beyond basketball, Dempsey has built meaningful connections with Denver’s MLS franchise, the Colorado Rapids. His cross-sport analysis brings the same depth and Colorado perspective that has made him valuable to the Nuggets organization.
Dempsey has leveraged his journalism background and local credibility to provide insightful coverage of Rapids matches and player development. As a Colorado native who grew up in Montbello, his perspective resonates with local soccer fans.
His work includes regular appearances at Rapids community events, strengthening the connection between Denver’s professional sports franchises and their shared fanbase. This cross-pollination of sports coverage demonstrates Dempsey’s versatility and commitment to the broader Denver sports ecosystem.
Recognitions and Achievements
Chris Dempsey has built an impressive career covering the Denver Nuggets and NBA basketball. His journalism journey spans over two decades, showcasing his dedication to sports reporting.
In 2008, Dempsey received one of his most notable accolades when he was named Print Journalist of the Year by the Colorado Association of Black Journalists (CABJ). This recognition highlighted his excellence in sports journalism while working at The Denver Post.
Dempsey broke barriers in basketball media coverage. After joining Altitude Sports in February 2017, he became the first African-American analyst on the network, building upon Maya Starks’ groundbreaking work as a host between 2008 and her departure.
His professional trajectory shows steady growth and recognition in sports journalism:
| Period | Position | Organization | Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-2017 | Sports Writer | The Denver Post | CABJ Print Journalist of the Year |
| 2017-Present | Nuggets/NBA Insider | Altitude Sports | First African-American analyst |
Dempsey’s career began in Boulder, where he covered prep sports, CU athletics, and the Denver Broncos for the Daily Camera. This foundation helped him develop the analytical skills that would later define his work with the Nuggets.
His current role as Nuggets/NBA Insider at Altitude Sports (2017-present) has cemented his reputation as a respected voice in basketball journalism.
Personal Insights and Future Projects
Beyond his professional role covering the Denver Nuggets, Christopher Dempsey brings a unique perspective shaped by his Colorado roots and diverse interests in sports media.
Off-Court Interests
Christopher Dempsey, a Colorado native born in Boulder, maintains strong connections to his hometown. He grew up in Montbello and attended Montbello High School before pursuing journalism.
His local background gives him unique insight into Denver sports culture that national analysts often lack. This hometown perspective has helped him build strong relationships within the Denver sports community.
When not covering Nuggets games, Dempsey participates in community events and basketball camps. He has been spotted at the Play By Play Sports Broadcasting Camps sharing his expertise with aspiring journalists.
Dempsey’s social media presence, particularly on Twitter, reveals his broader interests beyond basketball, though he maintains professional boundaries about his personal life.
Upcoming Ventures in Sports Media
Dempsey’s career trajectory shows continued growth in sports media. After transitioning from the Denver Post to becoming a Nuggets analyst and reporter for Altitude Sports, his next career moves appear focused on expanding his digital presence.
Industry insiders suggest Dempsey may develop a podcast focused on Western Conference basketball analysis. They believe he will leverage his connections throughout the NBA.
His reputation for highlighting overlooked stories positions him well for special feature projects. Colleagues praise how he’s “quick to offer assistance and encouragement” to others in the field.
The evolution of sports media presents new opportunities for Dempsey to expand beyond traditional reporting roles. His analytical skills and historical knowledge of the Nuggets franchise provide a foundation for potential documentary work or long-form writing projects about Denver basketball.
