Aaron Gordon to Honor Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
In a heartfelt and symbolic gesture, Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is set to change his jersey number from 50 to 32 for the upcoming NBA season. The new number is a tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
Aaron Gordon took to Instagram on June 6 to share his sentiments, writing, "Big bruh lives through me." This emotional proclamation underscores the deep bond between the brothers and the significance of this number change for Aaron.
Drew Gordon, who wore the number 32 throughout his collegiate career at the University of New Mexico, had an impressive stint with the Lobos. As a junior and senior, Drew averaged 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds, earning All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons. His crowning achievement came during his senior year when he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP.
Following his collegiate success, Drew Gordon took his talents overseas, embarking on a professional career that saw him play for several teams in Europe. In Serbia, he donned the number 32 jersey for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade. He achieved notable success in Europe, including winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014. Drew was also recognized as a basketball All-Star in France in 2016 and in Russia in 2018. His professional journey even included a brief stint in the NBA, where he appeared in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Given the breadth of Drew's accomplishments and the profound impact he had on Aaron's life, it's no surprise that Aaron has elected to honor his brother in such a significant way. Alongside wearing number 32, Aaron has also immortalized Drew with a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG."
For Aaron Gordon, this change also marks another chapter in his evolving NBA career. During his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, he wore number 00. Upon his acquisition by the Denver Nuggets, he switched to number 50—a number he famously wore during several thrilling NBA Slam Dunk Contest performances. Now, with the Nuggets holding the title of NBA champions, Aaron's journey takes on added emotional depth with the transition to number 32.
The Nuggets forward's decision to honor his brother in this manner adds a layer of poignancy to the upcoming season. As Aaron steps onto the court, Drew's legacy will be right there with him—a powerful symbol seen with each play, each basket, each rebound.
Drew Gordon's retirement from professional basketball in July 2023 marks an end to a career that spanned across continents and leagues, but his influence remains strong. Aaron Gordon's tribute through his jersey number ensures that Drew's memory and contributions to the sport continue to be recognized and celebrated.
As the Nuggets prepare for the new season, fans and teammates alike will undoubtedly support Aaron in honoring his brother's memory. The strength of their bond and Aaron's dedication will resonate throughout the basketball community, reminding everyone of the powerful connections that extend beyond the game itself.