From 2K Legend to Nuggets Coach | Denver News

JJ Barea, once a video game legend known for his unreal dunks and three-pointers in NBA 2K, is now an assistant coach for the Nuggets — and he’s still got that same underdog fire. Though he never dunked in a real NBA game, he’s helping young players like Trevon Brazile and Bryce Hopkins, who grew up idolizing him in the game, learn the ropes on the court. Barea, now 42, remembers his own Summer League breakthrough in 2006 — a raw, gritty journey that led to his NBA career. He’s using that experience to push the next generation to seize every opportunity, reminding them how rare their chance is. As he steps into his new coaching role, Barea’s blending his real-life hustle with his virtual fame — and the players are listening. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/553081f010c77432