Some NBA players wear jersey numbers that seem unusual or random at first glance. These numbers often have personal stories or deep meanings behind them. For many athletes, the number they wear is not just a uniform detail but a part of their identity. It can represent a tribute to a family member, a lucky number, a childhood favorite, or even a special date.
While some choose numbers based on famous players they admired growing up, others pick less common digits to stand out or for reasons known only to them. These choices often carry emotional value and reflect important moments in their lives or careers, making each number more than just a symbol on a jersey.
Personal Tributes Behind Jersey Numbers
Many NBA players choose their jersey numbers to honor family members or people who meant a lot to them. Aaron Gordon of the Denver Nuggets changed his number to 32 in memory of his late brother, who wore that number during his own basketball career.
Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves wears number 5 to remember his mother and grandmother, who passed away when he was young. Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings wears number 11 as a tribute to his father, who was also an NBA player. Even though that number had been retired by the team, he was allowed to wear it as a special exception.
Honoring Idols And Inspirations
Some players choose numbers to show respect to people who inspired them. Bronny James, son of LeBron James, wears number 9 for the Los Angeles Lakers because it represents a favorite rapper who inspired him. Paul George wears number 8 with the Philadelphia 76ers as a way to honor Kobe Bryant, who grew up in the same city. Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics wears number 10 when playing for Team USA because it was the same number worn by Kobe Bryant during the Olympics. These numbers help players feel connected to those they admire.
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Choosing Different Numbers When Needed
Not all players get to wear the number they originally wanted. Sometimes, their first choice may not be available. Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks wanted number 13, but it was not available, so he chose number 11 instead. It later became a number that fans now associate with him. Donovan Clingan of the Portland Trail Blazers wore number 32 in college, but since that number had already been retired by the team, he selected number 23 instead. Players often adjust while still trying to find a number that means something to them.
Going Back To Meaningful Numbers
Some players return to numbers they wore earlier in life. Derrick Rose picked number 23 when he joined the Memphis Grizzlies, the same number he wore in college at the University of Memphis. Jalen Green of the Houston Rockets switched to number 4 when it became available, which he had wanted since his first year in the league. Going back to a past number can bring good memories and confidence.
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