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The NBA has been around for more than three-quarters of a century, being formed in June of 1946. The league currently consists of 30 teams, with an endless number of players having come through the ranks over the years.
With that being said, there are 10 jersey numbers that have never been worn in an NBA contest. A notable social media account recently reminded fans of those numbers, sparking a reaction from the basketball world.
Everyone recognizes the jerseys of superstars. Michael Jordan’s No. 23. LeBron’s No. 6. Kobe’s No. 8 (or 24).
But not many can tell you the numbers that have never been donned. It’s a short list, and it even includes a number that’s been banned by the league.
Most of those jerseys sit on the higher side of things, with all but one falling in the 60s, 70s, or 80s.
NBA jersey numbers that have NEVER been worn: pic.twitter.com/GnEDEzFDhH
— Extra StatMuse (@extrastatmuse) June 12, 2023
Honestly, I’m surprised the list isn’t longer.
Some things of note:
- While nine of the ten never-before-worn jersey numbers come after the number 60, all of the 90s have been used in NBA play.
- 69 has been banned by the NBA, though Dennis Rodman tried to wear it in Dallas.
- Every number 50 and below has been worn, including 0 and 00.
The account went a step further to answer some interesting fan questions regarding the NBA jersey numbers.
For starters, why is No. 69 banned? The reasoning likely won’t surprise you.
Citing it as being “offensive slang.”
— Extra StatMuse (@extrastatmuse) June 12, 2023
Are triple digits allowed?
Triple digits are not allowed.
— Extra StatMuse (@extrastatmuse) June 12, 2023
What number has been worn the most?
#12 has been worn by the most in NBA history — 426 different players.
The most worn jersey numbers:
12
11
5
3
20
15— Extra StatMuse (@extrastatmuse) June 12, 2023
What about retired the most times?
Let me refer you to this chart I made a year ago (slightly outdated).
Most commonly retired jersey number is 32! pic.twitter.com/aXuSQWNeuY
— Extra StatMuse (@extrastatmuse) June 12, 2023
A number of other interesting tidbits can be found in the comments section, many of which have to do with specific jerseys. For example, you may not know that Shawn Bradley is the only player to wear No. 76.
The list is sure to shrink at some point in the future. Which number will be next off the list?