Helena Frye
In basketball, players can wear any number they like, provided it falls within the range of 0 to 99, and even 00. The only exception is the number 69, which the NBA does not allow due to its offensive connotations. While players can request a specific number, the NBA reserves the right to deny these requests. Numbers are typically chosen by the players themselves and can hold personal significance. In college basketball, the numbers 6, 7, 8, and 9 are not used, and in the NBA, certain numbers are retired and no longer used as a sign of respect for former players.
Characteristics and Values of Numbers used for Basketball Jerseys
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Legal numbers | 00, 0-5, 10-15, 20-25, 30-35, 40-45, 50-55 |
| Numbers not allowed | 69 |
| Numbers not allowed in college basketball | 6, 7, 8, 9 |
| Numbers with special significance | Michael Jordan (23), Kobe Bryant (24), Shaquille O'Neal (33), LeBron James (23/32), Magic Johnson (32), Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (33) |
| Number of unique numbers | 3000 |
| Number of players | 400+ |
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What You'll Learn
Legal basketball jersey numbers
The NBA has a set of rules regarding the numbers that can be used on basketball jerseys. While players can wear any number they want, there are a few exceptions. The numbers 00, 0-5, 10-15, 20-25, 30-35, 40-45, and 50-55 are all legal for basketball jerseys. A team roster may not include both 0 and 00, as these numbers can be easily signalled by referees using one hand. Additionally, the number 69 is not allowed due to its offensive slang connotation.
In the NBA, players typically stick to the number they are assigned when they begin playing competitive basketball in school. They can also request a specific number, and the NBA must approve this request. If a player wishes to change their number during their career, they can do so during the off-season with the NBA's permission.
Jersey number preferences are often personal to the players. For example, when Michael Jordan came out of retirement, he changed his jersey number from 23 to 45. Similarly, Kobe Bryant changed his number from 24 to 6 during his career.
It is worth noting that college basketball players are not permitted to wear the numbers 6, 7, 8, or 9. Additionally, no player in the NBA can wear a retired number unless permitted by the player who originally wore it or their family.
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Numbers with special meanings
In basketball, players often choose jersey numbers that hold a special meaning for them. While there are some rules and restrictions on the numbers that can be used, players generally have the freedom to select a number that is meaningful to them.
One example of a number with a special meaning is the number 23, made famous by Michael Jordan. Jordan's success and cultural impact have led to the number becoming synonymous with his legacy, with many players choosing to avoid the number out of respect for Jordan. Similarly, the number 24 holds a special significance due to its association with Kobe Bryant, who wore the number during his illustrious career.
Another number with a unique meaning is 33, which was worn by Shaquille O'Neal. O'Neal's dominance and influence on the game have made the number 33 iconic within basketball culture. LeBron James, a highly accomplished player, has also contributed to the significance of two numbers: 23, which he shared with Jordan, and 32, which he wore in honour of Magic Johnson.
In addition to these iconic numbers, certain numerical ranges are associated with specific positions in basketball. For example, the numbers 1-5 are typically assigned to guards, while 20-45 are commonly used by forwards, and centres often wear numbers in the 50s range. These associations provide a rough framework for players' number choices, allowing them to select a number that aligns with their position and the style of play they embody.
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Numbers players can't wear
In the NBA, players are free to choose their jersey numbers, as long as the number isn't retired or already taken by another player on the team. The league, however, reserves the right to deny a requested number, as was the case with Rodman's request to wear the number 69.
In college basketball, however, the N.C.A.A. has a longstanding rule prohibiting players from wearing the numerals 6, 7, 8, or 9. This rule, rooted in maintaining clarity in referees' hand signals to the scorer's table, has been in place for several decades. It is worth noting that this rule does not apply to coaches, who are allowed to wear numbers 6 through 9.
The legal numbers for college basketball players include 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 00, and numbers ending in 0 from 10 to 55. With the introduction of video replay for scorers in 2014, FIBA players can now use any number, although previously they were restricted to numbers four through 15.
While NBA players have more freedom in choosing their jersey numbers, the options for college basketball players are more limited due to the N.C.A.A.'s rule.
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Numbers players can change to
Basketball players can generally change their jersey number to any number they like, as long as it falls within the range of legal numbers and is not already taken or retired. The NBA allows players to use fifteen different numbers, from 0 to 99, and even 00. The only restriction is that a team roster may not include both 0 and 00, as these numbers can be easily signalled by referees using one hand.
Players can also choose to change their number to a retired number, but this requires the permission of the organisation and the retired number owner or their family. In some cases, players may have to wait for the number to become available if it is already taken by another player on the team.
It is worth noting that college basketball players are not allowed to wear the numbers 6, 7, 8, or 9, and the number 69 is also prohibited in the NBA due to its offensive connotations.
While most NBA players stick to one number throughout their careers, there have been instances of players changing their jersey numbers. For example, when Michael Jordan returned to the NBA after a three-year retirement, he switched from 23 to 45. Kobe Bryant also changed his jersey number from 24 to 10 during his career.
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Numbers indicating player positions
In basketball, there are five players on the court per team, each assigned to one of the five main positions: point guard (PG), shooting guard (SG), small forward (SF), power forward (PF), and center (C). Each of these positions is known by a unique name and number: point guards are assigned the number 1, shooting guards the number 2, small forwards the number 3, power forwards the number 4, and centers the number 5.
The point guard, also known as the "one" or "playmaker", is typically the team's shortest player and is responsible for running the offense. They are usually the team's best dribbler and passer, with excellent ball-handling skills. Point guards are often quick and good at driving and short-range shots, and they can create shots for themselves and their teammates.
The shooting guard, also known as the "two" or "off-guard", is the team's primary scorer. They are often slightly taller than the point guard, and their main responsibility is to shoot and score. Shooting guards are expected to be prolific from three-point and long mid-range distances.
The small forward, or the "three", is considered the most versatile of the five positions. They play against both small and large players and can score from long and close shots.
The power forward, or the "four", has a similar role to the center, playing near the basket and rebounding. They also take longer shots than the centers.
The center, or the "five", is the tallest player on the team, playing near the basket. On offense, they try to score on close shots and rebound, while on defense, they aim to block opponents' shots and rebound their misses.
While these number designations are common, it is worth noting that in basketball, players generally have more freedom in choosing their jersey numbers. Unlike sports like football, where certain numbers are typically associated with specific positions, basketball players often pick numbers that are meaningful to them.
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Frequently asked questions
Numbers from 0 to 99, including 00, can be used for basketball jerseys.
Yes, the number 69 is not allowed in the NBA as it is considered an offensive slang term. Additionally, in college basketball, players cannot wear numbers 6, 7, 8, or 9.
Players can choose any number they want as long as it is not already taken or retired. If a player wants a retired number, they need the organization's permission and the approval of the retired player or their family.
Yes, NBA players can change their jersey numbers during the off-season, but they must get permission from the NBA first.
Yes, a team roster may not include both 0 and 00 as these numbers can be easily signalled by referees using one hand.
