Aaron Gordon Honors Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is set to make a poignant tribute next season, changing his jersey number from 50 to 32. This heartfelt decision honors his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
The significance of the number 32 runs deep for Aaron, as it was the jersey number Drew wore during his illustrious college basketball career at the University of New Mexico. Recognizing his brother’s influence and legacy, Aaron chose to carry forward the number that Drew made iconic during his time on the court.
“Big bruh lives through me,” Aaron emotionally shared on Instagram on June 6, encapsulating the profound bond he shared with Drew. In addition to the jersey number change, Aaron has further commemorated his brother through a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG."
During his tenure at the University of New Mexico, Drew Gordon stood out as a remarkable talent. Averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds in his junior and senior years, Drew's dominance on the court earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons. His stellar performance peaked during his senior year when he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP.
Drew’s professional journey took him across the world, beginning with Serbia's Euroleague team, Partizan Belgrade, where he wore number 32. His career saw him achieving notable accolades, from winning the Italian Cup in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari to earning All-Star honors in France in 2016 and Russia in 2018. Drew also had a stint in the NBA, playing nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Throughout his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, Aaron Gordon was known for wearing number 00. Upon joining the Denver Nuggets, he initially switched to number 50, a nod to his multiple perfect-score dunks in NBA Slam Dunk Contests. However, his latest decision to adopt number 32 reflects a deeper, more personal significance.
Aaron's connection with his brother Drew transcends the basketball court. By bearing Drew’s initials on his chest and adopting the number 32, Aaron aims to keep his brother’s memory alive, both through his personal tributes and on-court performances. Drew announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, marking the end of an empathetic and well-traveled career.
Aaron Gordon’s career carries its own weight of success and accolades. Not only has he showcased his exceptional talent through jaw-dropping dunks and consistent performances, but Aaron also achieved the pinnacle of NBA success by becoming an NBA champion with the Denver Nuggets.
The new season will undoubtedly be imbued with a deeper emotional meaning for Aaron, as each game will serve as a tribute to his late brother. The basketball community, fans, and the Nuggets organization will watch and support as Aaron dons the number 32 jersey, ensuring that Drew Gordon’s legacy endures through every jump shot, pass, and slam dunk.
The upcoming season may bring new challenges and triumphs for Aaron Gordon, but one constant remains: the enduring love and respect he holds for his brother. As the Denver Nuggets aim for continued success, Aaron’s tribute to Drew will be a powerful reminder of the impact both brothers have had on basketball.