The Jersey Numbers That Will Never Be Forgotten

In the world of basketball, there’s a tradition of retiring the jersey numbers of NBA legends. This means that once a player has excelled and made significant contributions to their team, whether it’s in college or the professional NBA, no one else will ever wear that number.

Throughout the years, many players have donned jersey numbers that became iconic, inspiring fans worldwide. For instance, LeBron James chose the number 23 as a tribute to the legendary Michael Jordan, the former Chicago Bulls player who made that number famous.

Let’s delve into the five most memorable jersey numbers in NBA history:

• Jersey No. 32

The number 32 is cherished by many NBA teams who have retired it. Teams like the Detroit Pistons, Utah Jazz, LA Lakers, Boston Celtics, Portland Trail Blazers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat have all done so. Magic Johnson, a legendary player for the Los Angeles Lakers, wore the number 32 during his NBA career. 

Known for his exceptional skills as a point guard, Johnson’s jersey was retired in 1992 after an illustrious career filled with MVP awards and championships.

Karl Malone, another great player, wore this number for the Utah Jazz for eighteen years. He’s a two-time NBA MVP, 14-time All-Star, and the second-highest scorer in NBA history. His nickname, “The Mailman,” reflects his ability to deliver for his team. In 2006, the Jazz retired his No. 32 jersey. Other notable figures who wore this jersey include Larry Bird, Bill Walton, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, and Blake Griffin.

• Jersey No. 33

Number 33 is another iconic jersey number. It has been retired by eight NBA teams, including the LA Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks in honour of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Larry Bird, one of the greatest NBA players ever, wore this number for the Boston Celtics. Bird led the Celtics to three championships and numerous accolades. The Boston Celtics retired his jersey in 1993.

Patrick Ewing, who is synonymous with the New York Knicks’ success in the 1990s, also wore the number 33. Despite competing against the likes of Michael Jordan, Ewing’s remarkable skills left a lasting impact. The New York Knicks retired his number in 2003.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, often considered the best player to wear this number, achieved 19 All-Star selections, six MVP awards, and the highest point total in NBA history. The Los Angeles Lakers retired his No. 33 jersey in 1990, and the Milwaukee Bucks followed suit in 1993.

• Jersey No. 21

Number 21 was worn by two remarkable power forwards, Tim Duncan and Kevin Garnett. Tim Duncan spent his entire 19-year career with the San Antonio Spurs, earning five championships and multiple NBA All-Star selections. He was known as “The Big Fundamental” and had his jersey retired by the Spurs in 2016.

Kevin Garnett, the best player in Minnesota Timberwolves history, donned the number 21. He was named NBA MVP in 2004 and was a dominant force on the court. Surprisingly, the Timberwolves haven’t retired his number, but Garnett remains a beloved figure among fans.

Dominique Wilkins, famous for his spectacular dunks, also wore No. 21. He was a nine-time NBA All-Star and known as “The Human Highlight Reel.” The Atlanta Hawks retired his jersey in 2001, and his jerseys are still sold by the organisation.

These iconic jersey numbers continue to hold a special place in the hearts of NBA fans and players alike, reflecting the enduring impact of legendary athletes on the game of basketball.

• Jersey No. 34

Number 34 is often associated with dominant centres in the NBA. Shaquille O’Neal, known as “The Big Diesel,” wore this number for the LA Lakers, winning three consecutive NBA titles and Finals MVP awards. His time in the purple and gold is especially well-remembered.

Hakeem ‘The Dream’ Olajuwon of the Houston Rockets was another outstanding centre to wear the No. 34 jersey. He was known for his remarkable “dream shake” move and is one of the few players to win both the MVP and DPOY awards in a single season. The Rockets retired his jersey in 2002.

Charles Barkley, one of the greatest power forwards in NBA history, played for teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns while wearing No. 34. He led the Suns to the NBA Finals and earned the league MVP title. The Philadelphia 76ers retired his jersey in 2001.

Other notable players who wore the No. 34 jersey include Charles Oakley, Mel Daniels, Ray Allen, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Austin Carr. Players like Antetokounmpo continue to make this jersey number popular and may see their jerseys retired by their respective teams in the future.

• Jersey No. 23

Number 23 is perhaps the most famous jersey number in NBA history, thanks to Michael Jordan. Known as “His Airness,” Jordan’s unique style of play made him one of the greatest NBA players ever. He won six championships and inspired countless athletes and fans worldwide.

Even though Jordan never played for the Miami Heat, they retired the No. 23 jersey in his honour, recognizing his contributions to basketball. When Jordan retired in 1994, the Chicago Bulls also retired his jersey. Jordan briefly wore No. 45 when he returned to the court in 1995 before switching back to his iconic No. 23.

LeBron James, often compared to Jordan, currently wears the No. 23 jersey. He’s one of the most decorated active players in the NBA, with four MVP awards, four titles, and four FMVPs. His jersey may be retired by the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers in the future.

These iconic jersey numbers are a testament to the enduring legacy of legendary NBA players and their profound impact on the sport. They continue to be celebrated and revered by basketball enthusiasts worldwide.