Aaron Gordon Honors Late Brother with Jersey Number Change
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is preparing for a poignant change next season as he will swap his jersey number from 50 to 32. The new numeral carries profound significance, paying tribute to Gordon's late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident in May.
Drew Gordon's legacy is alive within the sport that he and his brother passionately shared. Drew wore number 32 during his notable college basketball career at the University of New Mexico. Aaron Gordon's decision to adopt this number is a heartwarming gesture to honor his brother’s memory and accomplishments.
Sharing his tribute on Instagram, Aaron expressed the deep personal connection he feels with his late brother, stating simply, "Big bruh lives through me." This sentiment resonates deeply as Aaron also revealed a new chest tattoo featuring Drew's initials, "DG."
Drew Gordon’s Impressive Career
Drew Gordon’s collegiate basketball career was impressive. He averaged 13.4 points and 10.8 rebounds during his junior and senior years at the University of New Mexico. His prowess on the court earned him All-Mountain West Conference honors in both seasons, showcasing his significant contribution and skill. Drew's performance peaked during his senior year when he was named the Mountain West Conference tournament MVP.
Drew's professional career saw him play internationally, highlighting his versatility and talent. He played for the Euroleague team Partizan Belgrade in Serbia, proudly donning the number 32 jersey once more. His journey continued in Italy, where he secured the Italian Cup with Dinamo Sassari in 2014. Drew further demonstrated his all-star caliber in France, where he earned All-Star honors in 2016, and in Russia with another All-Star recognition in 2018.
His brief NBA stint included nine games with the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2014-2015 season, offering a glimpse of his potential on one of basketball's biggest stages. Drew ultimately announced his retirement from professional basketball in July 2023, capping off a career filled with accolades and international respect.
Aaron Gordon’s Journey
For his part, Aaron Gordon has forged his own successful path in the NBA. He first made a name for himself with the Orlando Magic, where he wore number 00 for seven seasons. Following his move to the Denver Nuggets, he switched to number 50 — a number that became synonymous with his high-flying performances and recognizable on-court presence.
As an NBA champion with the Denver Nuggets, Aaron has solidified his reputation as a formidable player in the league. However, the change to number 32 signifies a deeper, more sentimental chapter in his career—a tribute not just to a brother, but to a fellow athlete whose spirit continues to inspire.
With this jersey number change, fans of the Nuggets and the wider basketball community will witness a continuing story of brotherly love and remembrance played out on the court. Aaron Gordon stands as a testament to how personal loss can fuel greater purpose, keeping the memory of Drew alive in every game, every point scored, and every triumph to come.