Aaron Gordon to Honor Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
In a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Aaron Gordon is set to change his jersey number from 50 to 32 for the upcoming NBA season with the Denver Nuggets. This move is more than just a numerical switch; it is a poignant gesture to honor Drew Gordon, who passed away in a car accident in May. Drew Gordon's college basketball career at the University of New Mexico was marked by his wearing of the number 32, making the number deeply significant for Aaron and his family.
Remembering Drew Gordon
Drew Gordon left an indelible mark on the basketball community. During his time at the University of New Mexico, he was a dominant force, averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game as a junior and senior. His stellar performances earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons, and he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year. Beyond college, Drew played professionally in Europe, making a name for himself with Partizan Belgrade in Serbia where he continued to don the number 32 jersey. He also celebrated significant achievements such as winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014 and being named an All-Star in both France and Russia.
His brief stint in the NBA saw him play nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season, adding another chapter to his diverse and accomplished career. Drew Gordon announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023.
A Brother's Tribute
Aaron Gordon's decision to adopt the number 32 is accompanied by another personal tribute—a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This tattoo symbolizes the profound connection and lasting bond between the Gordon brothers. On June 6, Aaron expressed his emotions on Instagram, stating, "Big bruh lives through me." These words capture the deep sense of responsibility and honor Aaron feels in keeping his brother's memory alive through his play on the court.
Aaron Gordon's career in the NBA has been marked by his impressive athleticism and versatility. He spent seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, where he wore the number 00. Following his trade to the Denver Nuggets, he switched to number 50. Aaron's time with the Nuggets has been fruitful, culminating in an NBA championship, adding a significant accolade to his career.
A Legacy Carried Forward
The impact of Drew Gordon's life and career is immense, and Aaron's actions ensure that his legacy continues to influence and inspire. Wearing the number 32 is not only a tribute to Drew's past achievements but also a poignant reminder of the love and respect Aaron holds for his brother. As they say, numbers carry stories, and every time Aaron steps onto the court donning the number 32, it will be a testament to Drew's enduring spirit and the everlasting bond of brotherhood.
Fans, teammates, and the broader basketball community will no doubt rally behind Aaron as he makes this meaningful change. It's a powerful reminder that within the world of sports, the narratives of personal lives and relationships add rich layers to the game, making each play, each number, and each achievement more profound.