In a heartfelt tribute to his late brother Drew, Aaron Gordon will be donning a new jersey number next season for the Denver Nuggets. After wearing number 50 since his move to Denver, Gordon will switch to number 32, a significant figure that carries deep familial and emotional significance. This change is not merely cosmetic; it is a tribute to the legacy of Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
The number 32 was iconic during Drew Gordon’s illustrious basketball journey. Drew showcased his talents wearing that number during his college basketball career at the University of New Mexico, consistently proving his prowess on the court. Averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds in his junior and senior seasons, Drew firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His stellar performance earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons and the title of Mountain West Conference tournament MVP in his senior year. Basketball was a passion the Gordon brothers shared, and Drew's legacy is one that Aaron continues to embody.
Drew Gordon's Professional Achievements
Drew's professional career was nothing short of remarkable. He played for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, where he continued to don the number 32. His journey also took him to Italy, where he was part of Dinamo Sassari's squad that clinched the Italian Cup in 2014. Further, he marked his talent across the European basketball scene, earning All-Star accolades in France in 2016 and Russia in 2018. Although his NBA stint with the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season was brief, Drew left a lasting impact wherever he played.
In July 2023, Drew Gordon announced his retirement from professional basketball, bringing an end to a vibrant and storied career. The news of his passing was a sombre moment for many, especially his brother Aaron, who now seeks to keep Drew's memory alive through his tribute on the court.
A Personal Tribute
To honor his brother, Aaron has taken his tribute a step further with a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." Aaron's commitment to his brother's memory is reflected in his social media as well. In a heartfelt Instagram post on June 6, he encapsulated his emotions with the words, "Big bruh lives through me." It’s clear that Drew's influence remains a significant part of who Aaron is, both as a person and a player.
Continuing the Legacy
Aaron Gordon's career has been noteworthy in its own right. Known initially for wearing number 00 during his seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, Gordon switched to number 50 upon his trade to the Denver Nuggets. The change to 32 signifies more than just a new chapter; it represents a continuation of Drew's legacy on the court. The number 50 had become synonymous with Aaron's dunking prowess, famously earning him high scores in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. However, the switch to 32 will symbolize something far more personal and profound.
As an NBA champion with the Denver Nuggets, Aaron Gordon’s contributions to the team have been instrumental. His decision to change his jersey number in tribute to Drew adds an emotional layer to what has already been a remarkable journey. Fans and teammates alike will witness not just the athletic prowess Aaron brings to every game, but also the memory and spirit of Drew Gordon with every play.
The upcoming season will see Aaron Gordon continuing his pursuit of excellence, this time with a number that carries the weight of personal history and familial love. As he steps onto the court with number 32, it will be a reminder of the bond shared with his brother—a bond that transcends time, echoed in every game and every moment he plays.
While the switch in jersey numbers marks a significant change for Aaron Gordon, it serves as a powerful symbol of remembrance and homage, ensuring that Drew Gordon's legacy continues to shine brightly in the world of basketball.