Paul Millsap

A four-time All-Star who anchored Denver's playoff runs with grit, versatility, and a 'Vote' message that went viral.

Paul Millsap, born February 10, 1985, is a former professional basketball player who spent four seasons with the Denver Nuggets from 2017 to 2021. A power forward originally selected by the Utah Jazz in the second round of the 2006 NBA draft, Millsap brought his experience as a four-time NBA All-Star to Denver. During his tenure, he signed a three-year, $90 million contract and played a pivotal role in leading the team back to the Western Conference Finals. His time in Colorado was marked by resilience, including returning from wrist surgery and making viral cultural statements during the 2020 NBA Bubble.

Quick Facts

Born: 10 February 1985
Birthplace: Monroe, Louisiana, U.S.
High school: Grambling (Grambling, Louisiana)
College: Louisiana Tech (2003–2006)
Draft round: 2
Draft pick: 47
Drafted by: Utah Jazz
Career position: Power forward

Lore & Background

Millsap's time in Denver began on July 13, 2017, when he signed a three-year, $90 million deal. His debut came on October 18, 2017, scoring 19 points in a 106–96 loss to his former team, the Utah Jazz. The season took a dramatic turn on November 21, 2017, when he was ruled out indefinitely following a left wrist injury that required successful reconstructive surgery five days later. He returned on February 27, 2018, against the Los Angeles Clippers, recording nine points and seven rebounds in 23½ minutes. By March 30, 2018, he was back to form, scoring a season-high 36 points in an overtime victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. His resilience continued into the next season; on December 3, 2018, he earned Western Conference Player of the Week honors, becoming only the 18th player in franchise history to win the award. Just four days later, a broken toe against the Charlotte Hornets cost him eight games, yet he returned to post season highs of 25 points on February 13, 2019, and 33 points on March 14, 2019.

Reader's Guide

Millsap's journey with the Nuggets highlights a player who transitioned from an All-Star scorer to a versatile starter capable of winning Player of the Week awards. His career in Denver was defined by overcoming significant injuries, including a wrist surgery that sidelined him for months and a broken toe that cost him eight games. Fans can track his specific milestones: scoring 36 points against Oklahoma City on March 30, 2018; earning Western Conference Player of the Week on December 3, 2018; and reaching the 2020 Western Conference Finals. His adaptability was key, as he maintained a starting role despite physical setbacks. The 'Vote 4 Millsap' moment remains a defining cultural touchstone of his tenure, showcasing his ability to blend basketball excellence with social awareness. He departed Denver after the 2020-21 season before moving to the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers.

Did You Know?

Millsap's jersey number 4 combined with his 'Vote' statement created the viral pun 'Vote 4 Millsap' during the 2020 NBA Bubble.
On March 30, 2018, he scored a season-high 36 points to help the Nuggets beat the Oklahoma City Thunder 126–125 in overtime.