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USA Today
01-08-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
DaRon Holmes II appears in 'Rookie Diaries' video released by Nuggets
Denver Nuggets forward DaRon Holmes II appeared in a new behind-the-scenes documentary video released by the team, detailing his experience at the NBA Summer League. Holmes returned to play with the Nuggets earlier this month after missing last season because of a torn Achilles tendon sustained during his debut last year. He started ramping up activity during the playoffs and was on the court for much of the summer before suiting up in Las Vegas, Nevada. The 22nd pick in the 2024 NBA draft was commended for the way he approached his rehab, while maintaining a high spirit. The medical staff helped ensure a smooth recovery process, which was on display in the first episode of "Rookie Diaries" released this week. Holmes was a consensus second-team All-American at Dayton during the 2023-24 season, averaging 20.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 2.1 blocks on 38.6% shooting from 3-point range as a junior. He was also the Atlantic 10 Co-Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. The 22-year-old made four appearances with the Nuggets in summer league, averaging 13 points, 9.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists and one steal on 42.1% shooting from 3-point range. He registered two double-doubles, including a 19-point, 17-rebound and five-assist performance on July 17. Holmes was understandably nervous to return to the site where he was injured, but the 6-foot-9 standout settled in and dazzled with the team. He was highly valued by the team entering the draft last year, and the organization will certainly be excited to watch him next season.
USA Today
06-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
On the verge of returning, Nuggets' DaRon Holmes II is in 'a great spot'
After missing all of last season with the Denver Nuggets, DaRon Holmes II is eager to return to play in the NBA Summer League beginning Thursday in Las Vegas, Nevada. Holmes underwent surgery last July to repair a torn Achilles tendon sustained during his debut with the Nuggets in summer league last year. He recorded 11 points, seven rebounds, one assist and one steal in 25 minutes before an awkward landing led to the injury. The 22nd pick in the 2024 NBA draft has made steady progress and is now fully healthy following the setback. He started ramping up activity during the playoffs and has been on the court for much of the summer in the lead up to their upcoming stint in the desert. "I think I'm in a great spot," Holmes said after practice on Saturday. "With the team we had last year and the team we have this year, we got great guys around, great locker room guys that help out for my mental. I think I'm in a great spot." Holmes was a consensus second-team All-American at Dayton during the 2023-24 season, averaging 20.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 2.1 blocks on 38.6% shooting from 3-point range as a junior. He was also the Atlantic 10 Co-Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year. The 22-year-old was commended by his teammates and coaches for the way he approached his rehabilitation following such a severe injury, while maintaining a high spirit. The medical staff helped ensure a smooth recovery process for a full return this year. "You have to start over from square one," Holmes said. "You have to learn how to walk again and run and play, so all of that stuff comes with it. I had a great environment around me last year, so I think I'm in great shape." Nuggets summer league coach Andrew Munson said Holmes won't be under any restrictions in Las Vegas, but the team would monitor him each game. With the length of games reduced to 40 minutes, Munson added that Holmes won't be nearing that mark in any appearance. Holmes admitted that he has thought about returning to the same arena where he was injured, but he is more excited about just playing basketball again. He is in a good position and just grateful to be back on the court again with the team. "I haven't played a game in a year," Holmes said. "It is going to be fun. It is going to be exciting. I'll make some new mistakes, but really just trusting the process."
