Russell Westbrook’s Jersey Number Journey Takes Another Turn
In a move that surprised many NBA fans, Russell Westbrook will not be wearing the No. 0 jersey for the Denver Nuggets next season. Instead, he will be switching to No. 4, marking the second time in his professional career he has chosen this number.
Westbrook's journey to Denver was an eventful one. After being traded by the Los Angeles Clippers to the Utah Jazz, a buyout of his contract allowed him to enter free agency. The Nuggets seized the opportunity to add the dynamic guard to their roster.
Historical Connections
Westbrook’s affinity for the No. 4 jersey goes way back. He wore the number during his high school days, establishing a deep connection to it early in his athletic career. Reflecting on this connection, Westbrook explained, "Four is my favorite number. It reminds me and it gives me a sense of my roots and where I started from and where I get it from."
His professional path, however, saw him don other numbers due to availability issues. Westbrook elaborated, "When I got to Oklahoma, even at UCLA, I got there, Arron Afflalo had it [the No. 4 jersey] at UCLA. Then I got to Oklahoma City, Nick Collison had it. Then when I got to Houston, Danuel House had it. So I didn't have an opportunity to kind of go back to my original number."
A New Beginning in Denver
In Denver, the No. 0 jersey was already taken by Christian Braun. On the decision to switch numbers, Westbrook mentioned, "Let's please leave our young star alone. CB and I never discussed him passing along the number 0. I did not want to inquire about or request the number 0 because I chose to mark this new change with a 'new' number."
This thoughtful approach underscores Westbrook's respect for his new teammates and his eagerness to embrace a fresh start. He added, "Obviously I could have stayed with zero if I wanted to, but I just decided to [pick four]. It's kind of my first time in my career I can go back to my original number."
Hunter Tyson’s Role
Rookie Hunter Tyson initially held the No. 4 jersey upon joining the Nuggets. Drafted in the second round of the 2023 NBA Draft and appearing in just 18 games with an average of under three minutes per game, Tyson agreed to switch to No. 5. This generous act paved the way for Westbrook to claim his favored number.
Christian Braun and the Number 0
Christian Braun, another intriguing subplot, also wore the No. 0 jersey during his high school career. By retaining the No. 0 jersey with the Nuggets, Braun maintains his connection to his high school days, much like Westbrook’s connection to No. 4. This continuity creates a unique bond between the two players, each holding onto a shred of their athletic history while forging new paths in Denver.
As the new season approaches, Westbrook's jersey number change symbolizes more than a mere switch in attire. It represents a nod to his past, a respectful gesture to his colleagues, and a bold step into his future with the Denver Nuggets. This move exemplifies Westbrook’s trademark tenacity and adaptability, qualities that have defined his storied NBA career.
With Westbrook now able to don his beloved No. 4 jersey, Nuggets fans are eager to see how this nostalgic choice will reflect in his performance on the court. Whether it brings a renewed sense of vigor and connection to his roots, one thing is certain: Russell Westbrook is ready for this fresh chapter in Denver.