A New Chapter for Aaron Gordon: Changing Jerseys in Tribute to Late Brother
Aaron Gordon, the seasoned forward for the Denver Nuggets, is ready to begin the next NBA season with a heartfelt change. Departing from his current jersey number 50, Gordon will don the number 32, a tribute to his late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in May.
The gesture is laden with personal significance. Drew Gordon wore the number 32 during his college basketball career at the University of New Mexico, a period marked by notable achievements. Aaron Gordon not only honors his brother's memory through this change but also by sporting a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG." Taking to Instagram on June 6, Aaron expressed his deep connection to his brother: "Big bruh lives through me."
Drew Gordon's Influence and Career
Drew Gordon's legacy in basketball is rich and multi-faceted. During his tenure at the University of New Mexico, he averaged an impressive 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds as a junior and senior. His efforts did not go unnoticed, earning him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both his junior and senior seasons. Notably, he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP during his final year, reflecting his critical role in the team's success.
The impact of Drew Gordon extended beyond college basketball into the professional arena. He played for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade in Serbia, where he continued to don his iconic number 32. His career saw him achieve significant milestones, including winning the Italian Cup in 2014 with Dinamo Sassari and being recognized as a basketball All-Star in both France in 2016 and Russia in 2018. Drew's skill and versatility were further highlighted during his nine appearances for the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2014-15 NBA season.
An Emotional Tribute
For Aaron Gordon, the jersey number switch is more than a simple aesthetic change—it's an emotional tribute to a sibling who profoundly influenced both his personal and professional life. Aaron wore number 00 during his seven-season stint with the Orlando Magic. Upon joining the Denver Nuggets, he shifted to number 50, a nod to his perfect score dunks in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest. With this latest transition to number 32, Aaron's jersey will serve as a constant reminder of his brother's enduring legacy.
The Denver Nuggets also feel the resonance of Aaron's decision. As reigning NBA champions, they understand the importance of team and family. This change not only honors Drew but also enriches the team's narrative with a story of brotherhood, resilience, and remembrance.
A New Season, A New Legacy
Looking forward, Aaron Gordon's upcoming season with the Denver Nuggets carries the weight of personal loss but also the promise of new beginnings. His performance on the court will be fueled by the spirit of his brother, whom he regards as a source of limitless inspiration. Drew, who announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, may no longer be physically present, but his influence will be felt deeply through Aaron's endeavors.
In adopting number 32, Aaron Gordon intertwines the past achievements of his brother with his own professional journey, creating a bridge between their shared histories. Drew's accolades, his time as the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP, and his professional victories in Europe, Russia, and the NBA all culminate in this gesture, ensuring his legacy lives on through Aaron's continued successes.
As Aaron Gordon steps onto the court next season, fans, teammates, and opponents alike will witness more than just a player in a new jersey; they will witness a poignant tribute to familial bonds and the enduring impact of a brother lost too soon. The number 32 will represent not only Drew Gordon’s storied career but also Aaron’s commitment to carrying his brother’s legacy forward, making each game a testament to the enduring power of love and remembrance.