Aaron Gordon Honors Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon will start the next NBA season with a new jersey number, paying tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon. Aaron, who has previously donned number 50, will switch to 32, a number that holds significant sentimental value for him and his family.
The change comes in the wake of a tragic event in Aaron Gordon's life. Drew Gordon, Aaron's brother, passed away in a car accident in May. Drew was an influential figure in his younger brother's life, both on and off the court. To honor his memory, Aaron has decided to wear the number 32, the same number Drew sported during his illustrious college career at the University of New Mexico.
Over his time at New Mexico, Drew Gordon made an indelible mark, averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds in his junior and senior seasons. His outstanding performances earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors for both seasons and he was also named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year. In addition to his college success, Drew's professional career was notable, playing in multiple countries and achieving significant feats.
Reflecting on the profound influence Drew had on his life, Aaron Gordon shared an emotional tribute on Instagram: "Big bruh lives through me," capturing the deep bond between the siblings. Beyond the jersey number change, Aaron has also inked his brother's initials, "DG," on his chest, a permanent reminder of the legacy Drew left behind.
Professionally, Drew Gordon had an international career filled with accolades. He played for Partizan Belgrade in Serbia's Euroleague, where he continued to wear number 32. His journey included winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014 and being named a basketball All-Star in both France (2016) and Russia (2018). Drew even experienced a brief stint in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season. In July 2023, Drew announced his retirement from professional basketball, closing the chapter on a rich and varied career.
While Aaron Gordon is now established as an NBA champion with the Denver Nuggets, his career has been one of adaptation and growth. During his tenure with the Orlando Magic, Aaron wore the number 00 for seven seasons. Upon his trade to the Nuggets, he changed to number 50, a number that paid homage to the perfect score he received in various slam dunk contests, spotlighting his athletic prowess and flair. Now, with the switch to 32, Aaron finds a poignant way to connect his professional achievements with the personal pain of losing his brother.
This decision to change numbers is more than a symbolic gesture. It is a testament to the powerful and inspirational influence Drew had on Aaron's life. Drew’s legacy, now immortalized through Aaron's jersey, will be a constant reminder and source of motivation every time Aaron steps on the court. The Gordon family’s bond, celebrated in this heartfelt tribute, underscores the deep connections that transcend the game of basketball.
Aaron Gordon's choice to alter his jersey number is likely to resonate with fans and the larger basketball community who have followed his journey. It is a reminder that, at its core, sports are filled with stories of personal triumphs and tributes, of overcoming adversity, and honoring those who have shaped journeys in profound ways.
As Aaron prepares to embark on another season with the Nuggets, his brother's memory will undoubtedly serve as a guiding force. The new jersey number 32 will not only signify a fresh start, but also a timeless acknowledgment of the love and inspiration Drew provided. Through this gesture, Aaron ensures his brother's impact is felt every game, every season, forward.