Why This Grizzlies Star Changed His Number
Following his recently negotiated five-year, $240 million extension with the Grizzlies, it seems a new era is officially underway for the Memphis Grizzlies’ star power forward, as Jaren Jackson Jr. has now changed his number from 13 to eight. Initially, the decision to wear number 13 came as a rebellious nod to his teammates who believed it was unwise. After all, 13 is an unlucky number. However, it seems the times have changed as Jaren has selected his new number to commemorate his father.
“This really resonates with what I’m on. It means new beginnings, which is what I’m feeling,” Jackson Jr. told Andscape. “I’m trying to tap into something different, and I want to honor my dad in the process by picking a number that we both shared. There’s other numbers that resonate good things too, but sharing a number that we both had in the past, it’s just a dream come true in another different way.” Jaren Jackson, Jaren Jackson Jr.’s father, played for nine teams across his 12-year NBA career. His time wearing the number eight jersey came as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers during the 1992-93 season.
While this move may seem like a young player simply paying homage to his dad, it also shows signs of maturity from Jaren Jackson Jr. Sure, the power forward is only 25 years old, but he's entering his eighth season in the NBA. A two-time all-star, three-time All-Defensive team member, and 2022-23 Defensive Player of the Year, Jaren Jackson Jr. has seen the highs and lows of the NBA. From big playoff wins and 30-point performances to devastating defeats and painful injuries. His experiences have redefined what motivates him.
“You want to be coming from an energy source that’s full of love and eternal work and doing the right things and being a good person, and just being really aggressive and hungry. But it isn’t in spite of anyone anymore. Even though you might still have haters and doubters, that can’t be the energy source because that’s not stable.” These are wise words from a player so young. Perhaps Jaren Jackson Jr. isn’t just improving as a player, but as a person as well.
