It never stops snowing in the winter. It's an old Western cowtown. In a predominantly white city, there is little of interest for blacks, particularly young, wealthy athletes who might want to play basketball for the Nuggets.
Those are some of Denver's stereotypes among those who don't know the city. With NBA free agency in full bloom, the Nuggets have $18 million to spend but must overcome not only their losing tradition when trying to woo free agents, but also lingering stereotypes of what it's like for well-to-do black pro athletes to live here.
That's why the Nuggets have made it a point to bring in free agents for tours of not only their facilities, but just as important, the city.
"We just have to expose players to Denver," Nuggets general manager Kiki Vandeweghe said. "Our biggest selling point is getting free agents here. I always tell them to come here because once they are here, I know they will have a great visit."
The following is a look at common misconceptions about Denver and what players say after learning more about the area.
