Aaron Gordon, the versatile forward for the Denver Nuggets, has announced a poignant shift that transcends basketball. Gordon will change his jersey number from 50 to 32 for the upcoming season, a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident this past May.
This change is steeped in significance for Aaron. During his college basketball career at the University of New Mexico, Drew was an influential player, donning the number 32 jersey. In a touching gesture, Aaron will now carry that number forward, ensuring that his brother’s memory remains an integral part of his journey on the court. “Big bruh lives through me,” Aaron shared in an emotional Instagram post on June 6.
A Brother’s Legacy
Drew Gordon’s collegiate career was nothing short of remarkable. Averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game in his junior and senior years, Drew left a lasting impact on the University of New Mexico’s basketball program. His excellence on the court earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both his junior and senior seasons. Additionally, he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year, a testament to his dominance and skill.
Following his collegiate success, Drew took his talents to the international stage. He played professionally for several teams, including the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, where he continued to wear the number 32 jersey. Drew’s international career also saw him becoming an Italian Cup winner in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari, a basketball All-Star in France in 2016, and an All-Star in Russia in 2018. He even had a brief stint in the NBA, playing nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
A Personal Tribute
Aaron’s decision to adopt the number 32 is more than just a numerical change; it is a deeply personal tribute to honor his brother’s legacy. To further enshrine his brother’s memory, Aaron has also gotten a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This permanent marker serves as a constant reminder of the bond they shared.
Aaron’s journey in the NBA has been notable in its own right. He began his career with the Orlando Magic, where he wore number 00 for seven seasons. After being traded to the Denver Nuggets, Aaron switched to number 50, a nod to his participation in the Slam Dunk Contest, where he famously received scores of 50 for his awe-inspiring dunks. Now, as he steps into the upcoming season, the switch to 32 symbolizes a new chapter, one intertwined with personal dedication and familial love.
Champion and Guardian
As an NBA champion with the Denver Nuggets, Aaron Gordon’s career has already been distinguished by significant achievements. This latest decision adds another layer of depth to his story, blending his professional prowess with his personal life. Aaron’s tribute to Drew is a powerful reminder of how athletes often carry their personal experiences and losses onto the court, turning moments of grief into sources of strength and inspiration.
When Drew Gordon announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, it marked the end of a storied career that had spanned several countries and leagues. Aaron’s efforts to honor Drew’s memory ensure that even in retirement, Drew’s legacy continues to inspire and influence.
This upcoming season will undoubtedly be emotional for Aaron Gordon as he steps onto the court wearing the number 32. It’s not just a jersey number—it’s a symbol of brotherhood, resilience, and an everlasting bond that transcends the game of basketball.