Aaron Gordon to Honor Late Brother with Jersey Number Switch
In a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Aaron Gordon will don the number 32 jersey for the Denver Nuggets next season. Moving from his current number 50, the change is more than just a shift in digits—it's a tribute to Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
“Big bruh lives through me,” Aaron Gordon posted on Instagram on June 6, encapsulating the profound connection and respect he has for his brother.
A Brother’s Legacy
Drew Gordon was a formidable basketball talent in his own right. During his collegiate career at the University of New Mexico, he proudly wore the number 32, a number that became synonymous with his impressive performance on the court. Notably, Drew averaged 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds during his junior and senior years, securing All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons. His dominant presence was further solidified when he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year.
Following his collegiate success, Drew’s basketball journey took him overseas. He played professionally for Partizan Belgrade in Serbia, proudly wearing his hallmark number 32 jersey. His international career was decorated with accolades, including an Italian Cup win with Dinamo Sassari in 2014, and basketball All-Star recognitions in France in 2016 and Russia in 2018.
Although his time in the NBA was brief, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season, Drew’s impact on the court was undeniable. His decision to retire from professional basketball in July 2023 marked the end of an era, but his legacy undoubtedly lives on through Aaron’s tribute.
A Journey of Jersey Numbers
Aaron Gordon’s jersey numbers have always carried significance. He began his NBA career wearing number 00 throughout his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, a number that stood out and became part of his identity. Upon joining the Denver Nuggets, Aaron switched to number 50, a nod to his impressive performances in the Slam Dunk Contest, famously achieving multiple perfect scores of 50.
However, the change to number 32 for the upcoming season is arguably the most poignant number switch of Aaron's career. It’s a reminder of the bond between the brothers and a way for Aaron to keep Drew’s memory alive on the court. “Big bruh lives through me” isn't just a statement; it’s a mission for Aaron, a way to channel his grief and maintain a tangible connection to his brother’s spirit.
A Fitting Tribute
Beyond the jersey number, Aaron has taken further steps to honor Drew’s legacy. He recently revealed a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This tattoo, coupled with the jersey number switch, adds a deeply personal layer to Aaron’s journey as an athlete and a sibling navigating the challenges of loss.
The decision to wear number 32 serves as both a tribute and a source of inspiration for Aaron. As he takes to the court next season, every dribble, shot, and victory will be imbued with Drew’s memory, offering a potent mix of motivation and remembrance.
Looking Ahead
Aaron Gordon's switch to number 32 comes on the heels of a triumphant chapter with the Denver Nuggets. Having earned the title of NBA champion, Aaron's focus is now on the season ahead. The combination of personal tribute and professional achievement creates a compelling narrative as Aaron embarks on this next chapter.
In the fast-paced, high-stakes world of professional basketball, jersey numbers often become synonymous with players' legacies. For Aaron Gordon, number 32 will forever be intertwined with his brother’s memory, a testament to love, loss, and the enduring bond of family.