Aaron Gordon once left California as a 20-year-old dreamer. He returned, not to reminisce, but to dismantle the Golden State Warriors. At Chase Center, he unleashed his fury for the Denver Nuggets. No, Jamal Murray. No Nikola Jokic. Not an issue. Just AG, Michael Porter Jr., and Mr. Triple-Double taking charge. The result? A shattered Dubs’ 7-game winning streak who looked unstoppable. But for Gordon, this victory wasn’t just about numbers or praise from Michael Malone—it was personal.

Aaron Gordon dropped a crucial 38 points, leading the Nuggets to a 114-105 win over the Warriors. But his biggest battle isn’t on the court. For nearly a year, he has hidden his family struggles, carrying a weight few recognize. Yet, he never lets it show. Michael Malone sees it all. And after the game, Denver’s mastermind made sure to give his 29-year-old warrior the recognition he deserves.

One of the reporters asked Coach Mike about Aaron Gordon’s game and also the mental fortitude he has shown throughout the season so far. The HC said: “I’ve had some great conversations with AG throughout the season. Everything he’s dealing with as a young man in this world. With his family. With his brother. And trying to play through that and be there for everybody in his family. That’s not easy.”

Malone further noted: “That’s a tall ask on top of, “Hey man, we need to go out there and be our power forward, our rock”, he’s the most unselfish and selfless player in the NBA. I just have nothing but love and respect for Aaron Gordon and the journey he’s on. We’re trying to help him get through that.” AG is a different breed, and the man knows to set his priorities right without letting any one issue come his way. From handling all that in the backyard to taking the Nuggets over the line when needed, his commitment needs no argument.

Simply put, AG is defying all emotional odds and playing for the Denver Nuggets like never before. He was once the true dunk king along with Zac LaVine, and to be honest, that luster seemed to have faded away with time. But now, a new never channels through the veins of the 29YO 6’8″ giant. It’s more like a driving force, a desire not just to prove his mettle in the league, but a heartfelt tribute to the one who’s gone.

Have you noticed Aaron Gordon doesn’t wear the No. 50 anymore? In August 2024, he changed his jersey number to 32 to honor his brother Drew. Now, why did he need the tribute? Why did AG change his number? Let’s find out.

Aaron Gordon’s fight through the odds amidst family tragedy

Drew Gordon, Aaron Gordon’s brother, tragically lost his life in a car crash in Clackamas County, Oregon on a Thursday afternoon in May 2024. He was just 33; he veered his three-wheeled Vanderhall over the center line, colliding with a GMC pickup. The other driver and passenger survived. But sadly, Drew didn’t. No arrests. No signs of impairment. Just heartbreak. A major setback for AG, who just didn’t lose a brother, but an avid supporter.

A proud brother, Drew, often cheered Aaron on in Denver, witnessing his NBA championship win in 2023. He played college ball at UCLA and New Mexico before competing globally. Moreover, Drew Gordon’s brief NBA stint with the 76ers left its mark. Thus, not just AG but the Denver Nuggets also mourned his loss, calling it a tragedy. “Far too young,” they said, but his legacy lives on—through his children, his family, and the love he left behind.

Therefore, Aaron Gordon isn’t just playing basketball. He’s carrying a legacy. Every dunk, every win, every fight on the court—it’s all for Drew. The No. 32 isn’t just a number; it’s a tribute, a promise, a reminder. Michael Malone sees the weight AG carries and stands by him, offering support beyond the game. AG isn’t chasing stats, he’s honoring a bond that even tragedy can’t break.