Aaron Gordon to Honor Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
In a touching tribute to his late brother Drew, Aaron Gordon has announced he will switch his jersey number from 50 to 32 for the upcoming NBA season. The Denver Nuggets forward revealed this heartfelt change on social media, stating, "Big bruh lives through me."
This decision carries deep personal significance for Gordon, as number 32 was the jersey Drew Gordon wore during his illustrious college basketball career at the University of New Mexico. Tragically, Drew Gordon passed away in a car accident this past May. By donning number 32, Aaron aims to keep his brother's memory alive on the court.
Drew Gordon's legacy in basketball is substantial. He averaged an impressive 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game during his junior and senior years at New Mexico. His stellar performance earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors for two consecutive seasons and he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP in his senior year.
Upon transitioning to a professional career, Drew left a lasting mark internationally. He played for Serbia's renowned Euroleague team, Partizan Belgrade, where he continued to wear number 32. Furthering his success, he won the Italian Cup in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari, was named a basketball All-Star in France in 2016, and again in Russia in 2018. Drew also had a brief stint in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
For Aaron Gordon, this change is more than just a tribute. It's a statement of brotherhood and remembrance. In addition to switching his jersey number, Aaron has also inked his dedication permanently with a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This emotional gesture underscores the strong bond between the brothers and Aaron's commitment to honoring Drew's memory.
During his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, Aaron wore number 00. After being traded to the Denver Nuggets, he adopted number 50, under which he achieved tremendous success, culminating in an NBA championship. This change to 32 marks a new chapter in his career, deeply intertwined with his brother’s legacy.
As the new season approaches, fans can expect to see Aaron Gordon step onto the court with renewed purpose and passion, carrying not only his own aspirations but also the spirit of his late brother. This poignant homage is a reminder of the powerful connections and motivations that drive athletes beyond the confines of the game.
Aaron Gordon's tribute serves as a meaningful testament to the enduring presence of loved ones and their impact on our lives, both on and off the court. Drew Gordon's remarkable career and life will undoubtedly be honored through Aaron's dedication and performance in the coming season.