Aaron Gordon Honoring Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
In an emotional and heartfelt tribute, Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon will don a new jersey number next season, switching from 50 to 32. This change is deeply personal for Gordon, as it honors the memory of his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
For Aaron, this gesture is more than just a number on a jersey; it’s a way to keep his brother's legacy alive on the court. "Big bruh lives through me," Aaron Gordon poignantly shared on his Instagram page on June 6, encapsulating the sentiment behind his decision.
A Tribute to Drew
Number 32 holds significant meaning for the Gordon family. Drew Gordon proudly wore the number during his college basketball career at the University of New Mexico, where he left an indelible mark as a standout player. Averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game during his junior and senior seasons, Drew's impressive performance earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both years. His senior year culminated in him being named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP, further solidifying his legacy.
Drew's impact extended beyond college basketball. He played professionally in Europe, representing the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, donning the number 32 jersey. His professional career was marked by notable achievements, including winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014 and earning All-Star honors in France in 2016 and Russia in 2018. Drew even had a brief stint in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
A New Chapter for Aaron
For Aaron, the transition to number 32 is a way to bring Drew's spirit onto the court. Throughout his career, Aaron has been known for his dynamic play and versatility. He wore the number 00 during his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic before switching to number 50 upon joining the Denver Nuggets. The number 50 quickly became symbolic for Aaron, especially following his scintillating performances in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
However, the connection to his brother now takes precedence. In addition to changing his jersey number, Aaron has also permanently honored Drew with a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This ink serves as a constant personal reminder of his brother’s presence and influence.
A Championship Dream Realized
Aaron Gordon's journey with the Denver Nuggets reached its pinnacle when he became an NBA champion. Winning the title is a significant achievement for any player, but for Aaron, it carries an added layer of emotional resonance following the recent loss of his brother. This victory symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, underlined by the personal tribute to Drew.
Drew Gordon announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, marking the end of a career filled with notable accolades and memorable moments across various leagues worldwide. As Aaron continues his journey in the NBA, his brother's memory will undoubtedly be a driving force, motivating him to perform at the highest level.
In a sport where numbers often hold special meanings and traditions, Aaron Gordon's decision to honor his brother by changing his jersey number is a touching reminder of the deep familial bonds that can transcend the game. As fans await the new season, they will undoubtedly see Aaron Gordon not just as a player but as a brother carrying forward a legacy with pride and love.