Aaron Gordon Honors Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon will be sporting a new jersey number next season, swapping his number 50 for 32. This change goes beyond a simple numerical switch; it carries a profound emotional tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in May.
Drew Gordon, a standout player during his collegiate career at the University of New Mexico, wore number 32 in honor of his achievements on the basketball court. Aaron Gordon's decision to adopt the same number serves as a heartfelt memorial to his brother, keeping his legacy alive every time he steps onto the court. "Big bruh lives through me," Aaron posted on Instagram, capturing the deep personal significance of this tribute.
A Legacy Remembered
Drew Gordon's basketball journey was marked by significant accomplishments. During his time at the University of New Mexico, Drew averaged an impressive 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game as a junior and senior. His exceptional performance earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both of those seasons, and he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year.
Drew's career extended beyond college, taking him to the international stage. He played professionally in Serbia with the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, proudly donning the number 32 jersey. His talent took him further afield, where he achieved notable successes, including winning the Italian Cup in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari. Drew was also recognized as a basketball All-Star in France in 2016 and in Russia in 2018, showcasing his global impact on the sport.
From Orlando to Denver
Aaron Gordon's own NBA career has seen its share of milestones. Beginning with the Orlando Magic, Gordon wore the number 00 for seven seasons before being traded to the Denver Nuggets, where he adopted the number 50. This number was a nod to his perfect scores in the Slam Dunk Contest, a testament to his spectacular athleticism and creativity.
Since joining the Nuggets, Aaron has become an integral part of the team, contributing significantly to their success. His efforts culminated in winning an NBA championship, an achievement that solidifies his place in the league. The switch to number 32 symbolizes not just a personal homage to Drew, but also a new chapter in Aaron's career as he carries forward his brother's memory and spirit.
A Permanent Tribute
Further underscoring his commitment to honoring Drew, Aaron has also immortalized his brother's memory with a new tattoo on his chest featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This permanent mark is a constant reminder of the bond they shared and the influence Drew continues to have on Aaron's life and career.
The Gordon family's journey through basketball is one both filled with talent and tinged with sorrow. Drew's brief stint in the NBA saw him play in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season, adding another chapter to his storied career. Despite the challenges, the Gordons have always displayed resilience and a deep love for the game.
Drew Gordon announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, bringing an end to his dynamic career. Though Drew is no longer physically present, his legacy continues through Aaron's tribute, both on and off the court.
As the new season approaches, fans of the Denver Nuggets will soon see Aaron Gordon in his new number 32 jersey. Each game will be more than just a contest; it will be a tribute to the enduring bond between brothers and a celebration of Drew's indelible impact on the sport of basketball. Through this simple yet profound gesture, Aaron ensures that Drew's memory remains vibrant and cherished in the basketball community.