As the new NBA season approaches, fans of the Denver Nuggets will notice a significant change on the court. Aaron Gordon, the dynamic forward and NBA champion, has decided to switch his jersey number from 50 to 32. This change is more than a simple numerical adjustment; it serves as a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon.
A Brother’s Tribute
Drew Gordon, who passed away in a tragic car accident this past May, was a towering figure both on and off the basketball court. During his college career at the University of New Mexico, Drew wore the number 32 jersey and left an indelible mark on the program. In his junior and senior seasons, he averaged an impressive 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, earning All-Mountain West Conference honors and being named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP in his senior year.
"Big bruh lives through me,” Aaron Gordon wrote on Instagram, sharing the deep personal connection he carries with his brother’s legacy. To further commemorate Drew, Aaron has etched Drew’s initials, "DG," onto his chest with a new tattoo, ensuring his brother’s memory is always close to his heart.
Drew Gordon’s Professional Journey
Drew's basketball career extended beyond college, taking him to professional teams across the globe. He showcased his talents in various leagues and countries, leaving a lasting impact wherever he played. In Serbia, he wore the number 32 jersey for Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade. His achievements included winning the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014 and being named a basketball All-Star in France in 2016 and Russia in 2018. Drew also made a brief stint in the NBA, playing nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season. His professional journey came to a close when he announced his retirement in July 2023.
A New Chapter for Aaron Gordon
For Aaron, the jersey number change to 32 signifies more than just an homage; it symbolizes carrying forward Drew’s indomitable spirit and achievements. During his own NBA career, Aaron initially wore number 00 for seven seasons with the Orlando Magic. After joining the Nuggets, he switched to number 50—a nod to his exhilarating performance in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest where he perpetually received near-perfect scores, yet narrowly missed victory.
The journey to this coming season has been transformative for Aaron in multiple facets. Winning an NBA championship with the Denver Nuggets has cemented his status as an elite player. His transition to number 32 marks a new chapter, blending personal motivation with professional aspirations. Aaron's choice is a poignant reminder of what drives many athletes: the love and memories of those who inspired them along their path.
As the new season dawns, Denver Nuggets fans can look forward to witnessing Aaron Gordon’s play imbued with the enduring legacy of his brother Drew. Each time Gordon steps on the court wearing number 32, it will be a tribute to familial love, resilience, and the unyielding spirit that his brother embodied.