As the Denver Nuggets gear up for the next NBA season, one of their key players, Aaron Gordon, will be sporting a new jersey number, switching from 50 to 32. This change is far more than a simple numerical alteration; it carries a deep, emotional significance for Gordon.
The new jersey number 32 is a heartfelt tribute to Aaron's late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident this past May. Drew Gordon himself wore the number 32 during his illustrious college career at the University of New Mexico, where he made a significant impact on the hardwood.
A Tribute to Drew Gordon
In honor of his brother, Aaron Gordon has also added a significant piece of personal art—a chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This visible reminder further cements the closeness and influence his older brother had in his life. Aaron succinctly expressed his profound connection to his brother on Instagram, writing, "Big bruh lives through me."
Drew's Stellar Career
To appreciate the weight behind Aaron's tribute, one must look back at Drew Gordon's basketball journey. During his junior and senior years at the University of New Mexico, Drew averaged 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. His performances earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons. Highlighting his senior year, Drew was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP, solidifying his status as a formidable player in college basketball.
Following his collegiate success, Drew Gordon embarked on a professional career that took him across the globe. He played in Serbia for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, donning the emblematic number 32. His European journey saw him reaching significant heights, including winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014, and being named an All-Star in France in 2016 and in Russia in 2018. Additionally, Drew had a brief stint in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Aaron Gordon's Journey
Aaron Gordon's NBA career has been closely followed since he was drafted fourth overall by the Orlando Magic in 2014. During his seven seasons with Orlando, he made the number 00 his own. His move to the Denver Nuggets saw him switch to number 50, in part reflecting his success in dunk contests, where he achieved perfect scores by doing sensational dunks, scoring multiple "50s."
With the Nuggets, Gordon has continued to make significant strides, contributing to the team’s remarkable achievements. Wearing his new number 32, he will seek to build upon his already impressive resume, now including an NBA championship with Denver.
Moving Forward
In memory of Drew, Aaron’s decision to switch to number 32 isn't just about remembering the past—it's also a way to keep his brother's spirit alive every time he steps onto the court. The emotional and personal weight of this change is something that transcends the game of basketball, reflecting the deep bonds of family and legacy.
Drew Gordon recently announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, but his impact on the sport and on his younger brother's life is far from over. Aaron’s new jersey number serves not only as a tribute but also as a source of inspiration, driving him to honor Drew's legacy through his own continued excellence on the court.
As fans anticipate the upcoming season, Aaron Gordon’s shift to jersey number 32 adds a layer of narrative and emotion to the Nuggets' campaign. It’s a personal and poignant reminder that, in the world of sports, some numbers carry stories far richer than the points on the scoreboard.