The Stories Behind Iconic Jersey Numbers
Why a number becomes inseparable from a player — and what made the league retire it. 8 stories in this series.
Wayne Gretzky 99: The Story Behind the Number
Wayne Gretzky's 99 came from wanting Howe's 9 in juniors and doubling up when it was taken. NHL retired the number leaguewide in 2000.
Why Did Michael Jordan Wear 23?
Michael Jordan wore 23 because his older brother Larry wore 45 and Michael wanted half — rounded up. He wore 45 briefly in 1995 too.
Why Kobe Bryant Changed From #8 to #24
Kobe Bryant changed from #8 to #24 in 2006 to mark a chapter break — and the Lakers retired both numbers in 2017, a first in NBA history.
Why LeBron James Wears 23 (and Briefly Wore 6)
LeBron James wears #23 as a Michael Jordan tribute he picked in middle school. He switched to #6 in Miami before returning to 23 in 2014.
Why Magic Johnson Wore #32 — Three Schools, One Number
Magic Johnson wore #32 from middle school through Michigan State and the Lakers — assigned by chance and kept the rest of his career.
Why Peyton Manning Wore #18 — A Family Tribute
Peyton Manning wore #18 in honor of his older brother Cooper, whose football career ended at age 18 from a spinal-cord condition.
Why Stephen Curry Wears #30 — A Father-Son Tribute
Stephen Curry wears #30 to honor his father Dell, who wore #30 with the Hornets, Cavs, and Raptors during his 16-year NBA career.
Why Tom Brady Wore #12 — A Number Assigned, Then Iconic
Tom Brady wore #12 because Michigan assigned it to him as a freshman scout-team QB. He kept it through his entire 23-year NFL career.
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