Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is preparing to pay a heartfelt homage to his late brother, Drew Gordon, by changing his jersey number from 50 to 32 for the upcoming NBA season. The change is deeply personal for Aaron as number 32 holds significant sentimental value; it was the number Drew proudly wore throughout his basketball career at the University of New Mexico.
A Tribute to Drew Gordon
Drew Gordon left an indelible mark during his time at the University of New Mexico, averaging 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 seasons, and he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year. This collegiate success laid the foundation for Drew's professional career, where he went on to play in the Euroleague with Partizan Belgrade, proudly donning the number 32 on his jersey.
Beyond college, Drew Gordon's career was decorated with numerous accolades, including being an Italian Cup winner with Dinamo Sassari in 2014, a basketball All-Star in France in 2016, and a basketball All-Star in Russia in 2018. He also had a brief stint in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Personal Connection and Remembrance
The decision to switch numbers is more than just a change on the back of a jersey for Aaron Gordon; it's a profound gesture of remembrance and respect. Aaron recently showcased a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG," symbolizing his brother's continuous presence in his life. Aaron poignantly captured this sentiment on Instagram, writing, "Big bruh lives through me," following his brother's passing in a car accident in May.
A Journey of Numbers
Aaron's journey with jersey numbers has evolved over the years. During his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, he sported the number 00. Following his trade to the Denver Nuggets, he switched to number 50, a number widely recognized for his astonishing performances in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. With his move to the number 32, Aaron is not only carrying forward his brother’s legacy but also marking a new chapter in his own illustrious career with the Nuggets. Not to be lost in the narrative is that Aaron is an NBA champion with the Denver Nuggets, cementing his place among the league's elite.
Drew Gordon's Legacy
Drew Gordon retired from professional basketball in July 2023, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond the statistics and title wins. His influence and inspiration clearly resonate profoundly with Aaron. Drew's journey across leagues in Europe and his recognition as a formidable player in Italy, France, and Russia showcase the breadth of his basketball prowess.
The new NBA season will see Aaron Gordon stepping onto the court with a jersey number that encapsulates a family's love, memory, and the spirit of a brother who continues to inspire from beyond. The change to number 32 is not just a new look but a testament to Aaron's enduring bond with Drew and a symbol of the powerful impact his brother had on his life and career.