Aaron Gordon is preparing to enter the new basketball season with a significant personal tribute, as the Denver Nuggets forward has decided to change his jersey number from 50 to 32. This change is deeply meaningful for Gordon, as it honors his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
Honoring Drew Gordon
Drew Gordon, an accomplished basketball player himself, left a lasting legacy in the sport. During his college basketball career at the University of New Mexico, Drew proudly wore the number 32 jersey. He was an outstanding player, averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds during his junior and senior years. His performances earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors and culminated in him being named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his senior year.
Drew Gordon's impact extended beyond college basketball. He played professionally overseas, showcasing his talents in Serbia with the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, where he continued to wear the number 32 jersey. His career further flourished in Europe, where he became an Italian Cup winner in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari. Drew's skills and prowess on the court were widely recognized, earning him basketball All-Star honors in France in 2016 and in Russia in 2018. He also had a brief stint in the NBA, playing nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Aaron Gordon's Tribute
Aaron Gordon, who previously wore number 00 during his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic and switched to number 50 after joining the Denver Nuggets, has now decided to adopt his brother's number 32. This change is not just about a numeral on a jersey; it is a tribute to the bond shared with his brother and a way to keep Drew's memory alive on the court.
In addition to the jersey number change, Aaron has also honored his brother with a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." This permanent mark serves as a constant reminder of Drew's presence in his life and the impact he had on Aaron both personally and professionally. On June 6, Aaron expressed his sentiments on Instagram, stating, "Big bruh lives through me."
A Champion's Journey
Aaron Gordon's decision to change his jersey number comes on the heels of a successful season with the Denver Nuggets, where he played a crucial role in leading the team to an NBA championship. His versatility, athleticism, and defensive prowess were instrumental in the Nuggets' historic title run. Now, as he prepares for the upcoming season, Aaron is driven by a renewed sense of purpose and motivation, carrying his brother's legacy with him every step of the way.
The upcoming season will undoubtedly be an emotional one for Aaron, as he takes to the court wearing number 32 in honor of Drew. This heartfelt tribute is a testament to the strong bond shared between the brothers and serves as an inspiration to both his teammates and fans.
As Aaron Gordon embarks on this new chapter of his career, his brother's spirit will continue to guide him, serving as a source of strength and inspiration. The number 32 will not only represent a jersey but a tribute to a beloved brother, a talented athlete, and a cherished memory that lives on through Aaron's dedication and love for the game of basketball.