Aaron Gordon to Honor Late Brother with New Jersey Number
Next season, fans of the Denver Nuggets will notice a significant change on the court as Aaron Gordon is set to don jersey number 32, a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon. Aaron's decision to switch from number 50 to 32 is deeply personal and steeped in family history.
This tribute comes in the wake of Drew Gordon's tragic passing in a car accident in May. Drew had an illustrious basketball career himself, wearing number 32 during his college basketball days at the University of New Mexico. It was there that he carved out an impressive legacy, averaging 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds in his junior and senior years. Drew’s stellar performances earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both his junior and senior seasons, and he was also named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his final year at New Mexico.
Aaron Gordon shared his emotional connection to Drew through social media, poignantly stating, "Big bruh lives through me," on Instagram on June 6. This sentiment is not only reflected in Aaron's new jersey number but also quite literally inked onto his skin. Aaron has a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG," further symbolizing the deep bond the brothers shared and Aaron's desire to keep Drew’s memory alive.
Beyond college, Drew Gordon continued to make his mark on the international basketball scene. He played professionally in Serbia for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade, proudly sporting number 32. Drew's career also saw him achieving success in various top European leagues. He was an Italian Cup winner in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari and earned All-Star honors in France in 2016 and in Russia in 2018. In addition to his international achievements, Drew had a brief stint in the NBA, appearing in nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
Aaron Gordon's basketball journey has also been noteworthy. Prior to joining the Denver Nuggets, he spent seven seasons with the Orlando Magic where he wore number 00. Upon joining the Nuggets, he opted for number 50, a number synonymous with his prowess in dunk competitions. However, his recent decision to switch to number 32 symbolizes a shift from personal accolades to a tribute filled with emotional significance and family heritage.
The narrative of Aaron and Drew Gordon is not just one of basketball but of deep familial love and respect. Their shared journey through the sport has intertwined their legacies in a manner that goes beyond statistics and titles. By wearing number 32, Aaron Gordon aims to ensure that every time he steps onto the court, he honors his brother's memory and the impact Drew had on his life.
As Aaron continues his career with the Denver Nuggets, this new season will no doubt carry a special significance. The switch to number 32 is more than a change in digits; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of Drew Gordon and the profound influence he had on Aaron. It carries with it a narrative of loss, remembrance, and a brother’s love, underscoring that while Drew may no longer be physically present, his legacy and spirit continue to inspire and drive his brother forward.
Fans and the broader basketball community will surely resonate with Aaron Gordon's heartfelt tribute, adding a poignant layer to his already remarkable journey in the NBA. As the new season approaches, Aaron's tribute stands as a poignant reminder of the powerful bonds of family and the enduring nature of legacy within the world of sports.