Next season will witness a poignant tribute from Denver Nuggets star Aaron Gordon, as he prepares to change his jersey number from 50 to 32. This heartfelt switch honors his late brother, Drew Gordon, who left an indelible mark on those who knew him, both on and off the court.
A Tribute to a Brother
Aaron's decision to don the number 32 carries deep personal significance. Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May, wore the number 32 during his illustrious college basketball career at the University of New Mexico. The gesture is Aaron's way of keeping his brother's memory alive every time he steps on the court.
“Big bruh lives through me,” Aaron expressed on Instagram on June 6, encapsulating the emotional weight of this tribute. In addition to the jersey number change, Aaron also got a chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG," further enshrining his brother's influence and memory.
Drew Gordon's Basketball Journey
Drew Gordon was a formidable force during his tenure at the University of New Mexico. As a junior and senior, he averaged an impressive 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game and earned All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons. His senior year also saw him crowned the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP, a testament to his exceptional skills and leadership on the court.
After college, Drew's professional career took him across the globe. He played for the Serbian team Partizan Belgrade in the Euroleague, proudly wearing the number 32. His prowess on the court didn’t stop there; Drew was an Italian Cup winner in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari and was named a basketball All-Star in France in 2016 and in Russia in 2018. Although his time in the NBA was brief, he made his mark by playing nine games for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-15 season.
A Legacy Enshrined
Aaron Gordon’s journey in the NBA has also been noteworthy. He spent seven seasons with the Orlando Magic, wearing number 00 before switching to number 50 after joining the Denver Nuggets. His high-flying dunks and athleticism have made him a standout player. The highlight of his career came recently when he became an NBA champion with the Denver Nuggets.
With the upcoming season, the transition to wearing number 32 is more than just a change in jersey. It's a symbol of inspiration and homage to his brother's legacy. Drew might have retired from professional basketball in July 2023, but his influence remains strong, especially through Aaron’s heartfelt tribute.
In every game, every play, and every shot, Aaron will be carrying Drew's legacy, making every moment on the court a testimonial to the profound bond between the Gordon brothers. The number 32 will not just represent Aaron's talents but also the enduring spirit of Drew, who continues to inspire through the path he carved and the memories he left behind.