Aaron Gordon to Honor Late Brother by Changing Jersey Number to 32
As Aaron Gordon of the Denver Nuggets steps onto the court next season, fans might notice a significant change: Gordon will be trading his number 50 jersey for number 32. This move is more than a mere change of attire; it is a deeply personal tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident this past May.
Drew Gordon, a notable figure in the basketball world, wore the number 32 during his college career at the University of New Mexico. Aaron's decision to adopt this jersey number is not just in memory of his brother’s basketball legacy but also as a heartfelt homage to the bond they shared. On Instagram, Aaron expressed his sentiments succinctly yet profoundly: "Big bruh lives through me."
Indeed, Drew had left an indelible mark in his time at the University of New Mexico. Averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game as a junior and senior, Drew’s prowess on the court earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors for two consecutive seasons. Additionally, he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year, further solidifying his status as a standout player.
Beyond his collegiate success, Drew's professional career took him across the globe. He played for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade in Serbia, where he continued to don the number 32. Drew's journey included highlights such as winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014, being named a basketball All-Star in France in 2016, and earning the same accolade in Russia in 2018. His career even extended to the NBA, where he played nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
For Aaron, the switch to number 32 is more than an athletic decision; it’s a deeply personal gesture. Aaron has also honored his brother’s memory by getting a chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This tattoo serves as a permanent reminder of his brother's influence and their enduring bond.
Reflecting on Aaron’s journey in the NBA adds layers of meaning to this change. Over seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, Aaron wore the number 00. Following his trade to the Denver Nuggets, he switched to number 50. This number was symbolically tied to his reputation for high-flying dunks, earning perfect scores in Dunk Contests. It was a number associated with his athletic prowess and showmanship.
However, after a transformative season with the Denver Nuggets, culminating in an NBA championship, Aaron now looks to turn another chapter in his career with the number 32 symbolizing a more profound, emotional connection. This number change will not only be a testament to his brother’s legacy but also a constant source of inspiration for Aaron as he continues to excel on the court.
Aaron’s tribute and Drew’s storied career illustrate the unyielding bond between the Gordon brothers, magnified by their shared love for basketball. As Drew announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, Aaron’s heartfelt tribute ensures that his brother’s legacy will continue to resonate with fans and the wider basketball community.
The upcoming NBA season will see Aaron Gordon playing with a renewed sense of purpose. Every game, every point, and every rebound will be a tribute to Drew’s memory, reminding everyone that behind the number 32 jersey is a story of brotherly love, loss, and everlasting legacy.