Aaron Gordon to Honor Late Brother by Changing Jersey Number
In a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Aaron Gordon will don a new jersey number for the Denver Nuggets next season. The star forward announced that he will switch from his current number 50 to number 32. This significant change holds deep personal meaning for Gordon, as it is a homage to his brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
Drew Gordon, who had a notable basketball career of his own, wore number 32 during his collegiate tenure at the University of New Mexico. He averaged 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game in his junior and senior seasons, earning All-Mountain West Conference honors both years. Drew's dominance on the court also saw him being named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP in his senior year, leaving an indelible mark on the program.
This tribute is not just about numbers on a jersey; Aaron Gordon has also immortalized his brother with a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This is a clear testament to the profound impact Drew had on Aaron, both personally and professionally.
Aaron Gordon took to Instagram on June 6 to express his enduring connection with his brother, posting a poignant message: "Big bruh lives through me." This heartfelt declaration underscores the deep bond the siblings shared and how Aaron continues to carry Drew’s legacy forward.
Beyond his college achievements, Drew Gordon had a commendable professional basketball career. He played in Serbia for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, proudly wearing number 32. Drew’s international career included notable stints: he was an Italian Cup winner in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari, a basketball All-Star in France in 2016, and again in Russia in 2018. Drew also had a brief spell in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
In contrast, Aaron Gordon's career trajectory has taken him to the pinnacle of the NBA. Starting his career with the Orlando Magic, he wore number 00 for seven seasons before switching to number 50 upon joining the Denver Nuggets. His athletic prowess and versatility have made him a vital asset to the Nuggets, culminating in an NBA championship. The number 50, familiar to many fans, is now set to change to 32, embedding Drew’s memory in Aaron's current chapter in professional basketball.
Reflecting on the significance of these numbers, it’s clear that each holds a reservoir of memories and stories. The switch from 50 to 32 is more than just a numerical change; it symbolizes Aaron bringing his brother's spirit with him onto the court. Given the recent announcement, fans and commentators alike will watch with a sense of admiration and empathy as Aaron steps onto the court next season, emblazoned with his brother’s memory.
While the new season promises fresh challenges and triumphs, Aaron Gordon's dedication to honoring Drew provides a poignant storyline that extends beyond the realm of basketball. This touching tribute is a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds of family and the profound ways in which loved ones continue to influence and inspire.
As Aaron Gordon prepares to take to the court with number 32, it’s not just a new jersey he will be wearing. It’s a legacy, a tribute, and a heartfelt promise to keep his brother’s memory alive with each dribble, pass, and slam dunk. In every facet of his game, "Big bruh lives through me" will resonate, a testament to the strength and significance of their brotherhood.