The Denver Nuggets may have their regrets regarding how they exited the playoffs, but Aaron Gordon is enduring another struggle that is completely different from his teammates.
The talented power forward lost his brother Drew Gordon in late May, which surprised him and his family with grief. He’s since received support from fellow players and fans during that difficult time, but these internal struggles don’t immediately dissipate after friends and colleagues extend their condolences.
It’s easy to imagine that the dilemma caused plenty of changes in his and his family’s lives. Gordon is taking the change a bit further by making a small but significant change in his basketball career.
Aaron Gordon changes his Denver Nuggets jersey number to honor his late brother
Jesse Sarles of CBS News Colorado reported that the forward will wear a different jersey number next season. The number he chose is #32, in honor of his late brother who also played professional basketball.
The elder Gordon, who was killed in a car crash in Oregon aged 33, had a short stint with the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2014-15 season. He has since plied his trade overseas, playing on teams like Partizan Belgrade, Dinamo Sassari and, BC Zenit St. Petersburg.
The move is a touching tribute by the 28-year-old forward to his older brother. There’s little to no doubt that he’ll dedicate every game this season to him.
Gordon will be a key starter for the Nuggets next season
Aaron Gordon may not have the flashiest play style in the NBA, but he gets the job done for the Nuggets as their dynamic forward. He finished the 2023-24 regular season with 13.9 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. He was also one of the few standout players for the Mile High City-based squad in their seven-game series against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
While Gordon won’t be expected to carry the offensive load for the Nuggets, he’ll be a key player for Mike Malone’s squad. Fans can expect him to show out with his personal motivations guiding him to play better.
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