The Denver Nuggets will play a preseason exhibition game against the Utah Jazz at the University of Colorado's CU Events Center on October 4. This marks a return to Boulder for the NBA franchise and a homecoming for guard KJ Simpson, who played college ball for the Buffaloes. The Nuggets are riding high, having won their last five games, including a 128-118 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on April 13, 2026.
What is the significance of this exhibition game?
The game is the Nuggets' fourth exhibition at the CU Events Center and their first there since 2015 when they faced the Chicago Bulls. For the University of Colorado, it's a major event that brings professional basketball back to campus. It also serves as a key preseason tune-up for the Nuggets as they prepare for the 2026-27 NBA season. You can track their preparation and upcoming games on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.
For KJ Simpson, the matchup is a full-circle moment. He was a star for the Buffaloes during the 2023-24 season, averaging 19.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists. That performance earned him first team All-Pac-12 honors. The game was nearly a reunion with his former CU teammate Cody Williams, who was drafted by Utah but traded to Minnesota in late August.
Who is KJ Simpson and what is his NBA journey?
KJ Simpson was selected 42nd overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2024 NBA Draft. As a rookie, he averaged 7.8 points across 36 games. Charlotte released him after 14 games last season, and he signed a two-way contract with the Denver Nuggets in February 2025. With the Nuggets, Simpson saw limited action, appearing in six games and averaging 1.2 points.
His career NBA totals, through 56 games, stand at 6.7 points and 2.7 assists per game. The exhibition in Boulder offers him a chance to perform in a familiar setting as he competes for a more permanent role on the Nuggets' roster. His development is one of many storylines fans can follow through our [squad](/squad) overview.
What is the context for the Denver Nuggets entering this preseason?
The Nuggets head into this exhibition period with strong momentum. Their recent form shows a perfect 5-0 record (WWWWW) in their last five outings, a winning run they'll look to extend into the new campaign. Their most recent result was a solid 128-118 win over the San Antonio Spurs back on April 13, 2026. Preseason games are vital for evaluating roster depth and integrating players like Simpson into the team's system.
Facing the Utah Jazz provides a competitive test. While the anticipated matchup with Cody Williams is off the table due to his trade, the Jazz remain a Western Conference opponent that will challenge the Nuggets' execution on both ends of the floor. These games help set the tone for the regular season grind.
Organizing this event required coordination between the Nuggets' front office and the University of Colorado athletic department. The announcement was made jointly on a Tuesday, confirming the October 4 date. For the Buffs' basketball program, hosting an NBA game is a significant shows for recruits and fans alike. It reinforces the connection between the state's flagship university and its professional team.
