Aaron Gordon Honors Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
In an emotional tribute, Aaron Gordon, the Denver Nuggets forward, will change his jersey number from 50 to 32 next season, honoring the memory of his late brother, Drew Gordon. The heartfelt decision comes a few months after Drew tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
For Aaron, this number is more than just a numerical shift; it symbolizes carrying on his brother's legacy. Drew Gordon was an accomplished basketball player himself, donning the iconic number 32 during his collegiate career at the University of New Mexico. His contributions on the court were nothing short of impressive, averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds during his junior and senior seasons.
Drew’s excellence did not stop there. He earned All-Mountain West Conference honors both years and was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP as a senior. His professional career took him overseas, where he played for several European teams, including Partizan Belgrade in Serbia, where he also wore the number 32. Drew's talents were recognized globally, being named an All-Star in France in 2016 and Russia in 2018. Notably, he was part of the Italian Cup-winning team Dinamo Sassari in 2014 and had a brief stint in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Aaron's homage extends beyond just the jersey number. He recently inked a new chest tattoo bearing Drew's initials, "DG," a permanent marker of his brother's continuing presence in his life. On Instagram, Aaron powerfully expressed his connection to Drew, stating, "Big bruh lives through me."
The Gordon family's basketball legacy is rich, with both brothers achieving significant heights in their careers. However, Aaron's accomplishments have taken a glittering turn. After spending seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, where he sported the number 00, Aaron switched to number 50 upon joining the Denver Nuggets. The change had initially signified a fresh chapter in his NBA journey, and it was a fortuitous one. Aaron recently clinched an NBA Championship with the Nuggets, marking a pinnacle achievement in his professional journey.
Reflecting on Drew's career and his impact on and off the court adds layers of meaning to Aaron's upcoming season. Drew's decision to retire from professional basketball in July 2023 perhaps drew a bittersweet close to his vibrant playing days, but his spirit lives on through Aaron’s successes and tributes.
Aaron's gesture embodies more than familial love—it speaks volumes about the bonds of brotherhood and the influence Drew had on Aaron both as a mentor and as a sibling. As Nuggets fans anticipate another thrilling season, the sight of Aaron Gordon in jersey number 32 will be a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of Drew Gordon. The entire basketball community, including fans, teammates, and rivals, will witness a tribute that goes beyond the game, transcending the sport to touch the essence of family and remembrance.
In this new chapter of his career, Aaron's performance on the court will undoubtedly be driven by a deeper purpose. The number 32 will represent not just a player, but a story of brotherly love, shared dreams, and an enduring legacy carried forward. As Aaron channels his brother’s spirit, it’s clear that Drew’s influence will permeate every game, making each moment on the court a living tribute to his memory.