Aaron Gordon is set to make a significant change in the upcoming NBA season as he pays tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon. The Denver Nuggets forward announced his decision to switch his jersey number from 50 to 32, in homage to Drew, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
A Tribute to Drew Gordon
The number 32 holds profound meaning for Aaron, as it was Drew's jersey number during his college basketball career at the University of New Mexico. Drew Gordon made remarkable strides during his time at the university, averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds as a junior and senior. His stellar performance earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons, and he was named the tournament MVP in his senior year.
Beyond college, Drew's basketball journey saw him playing professionally across the globe. He donned number 32 for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade in Serbia and achieved success in various countries, including winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014, being named a French basketball All-Star in 2016, and earning similar honors in Russia in 2018. Drew also had a brief stint in the NBA, playing nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Aaron Gordon's Heartfelt Tribute
In a touching gesture, Aaron has also memorialized Drew with a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." On Instagram, Aaron poignantly expressed the deep bond he shared with his brother, saying, "Big bruh lives through me," on June 6. This public declaration of love and respect underscores how significant Drew's influence was on Aaron, both on and off the court.
Aaron's decision to change his jersey number is a continuation of a journey that has seen him wear different numbers reflecting various stages of his career. During his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, he sported the number 00. Upon joining the Denver Nuggets, Aaron switched to number 50, a number that became synonymous with his high-flying, dunk contest-winning performances.
From Number 50 to 32
While Aaron has already left an indelible mark with the Denver Nuggets, helping lead the team to an NBA championship, the change to number 32 signifies a deeper, more personal chapter in his basketball career. This new number isn’t just a numerical change on his jersey; it’s a tribute to Drew's legacy and a means for Aaron to carry a piece of his brother with him every game. Drew’s accomplishments as a collegiate and professional player set a high bar, one that Aaron continues to honor through his dedication and performances.
Carrying Forward a Legacy
The decision to switch jersey numbers is a powerful reminder of the tight-knit bond between the Gordon brothers and the enduring impact of Drew's life and career. For Aaron, this move isn’t just about making a statement on the court; it represents a monumental tribute to a brother who was a mentor, an inspiration, and a best friend.
As Aaron Gordon prepares for the next season with a new number on his back, fans, teammates, and the basketball community at large will undoubtedly feel the emotional weight behind his choice. In honoring Drew, Aaron not only keeps his brother’s memory alive but also takes on the mantle of his legacy, ensuring that Drew’s spirit remains very much a part of the game he loved.