List of NBA retired numbers

From Wikipedia the free encyclopedia

Los Angeles Lakers retired jerseys hanging inside the Staples Center, January 2013

As a way to honor key contributors including players, coaches, fans, broadcasters and announcers, National Basketball Association (NBA) teams often retire their jersey numbers, win totals or microphones. In the case of jersey numbers, they are usually no longer available for future players to wear, although they can ask for permission from players whose jerseys are retired. Teams usually display these numbers by hanging banners on the rafters inside their home arena. As of November 2024, only the Los Angeles Clippers do not have any retired numbers. Two players have had their numbers retired by teams they did not play for, and only one player (Bill Russell) had his number retired league wide.

List

[edit]

Key:

 † 
Inducted to the Basketball Hall of Fame
 ‡ 
Number retired league-wide
Retired NBA numbers
No. Name Team Pos. Years with franchise Note Refs
9 Bob Pettit† Atlanta Hawks F 1954–1965 Did not play for franchise in Atlanta. Played in Milwaukee during rookie season of 1954–55, then remainder of career in St. Louis. [1]
21 Dominique Wilkins† Atlanta Hawks F 1982–1994 Currently team vice president and television color analyst. [1]
23 Lou Hudson† Atlanta Hawks F 1966–1977 The team was in St. Louis in his first two seasons (1966–1968). [1]
44 Pete Maravich† Atlanta Hawks G 1970–1974 One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (Atlanta, New Orleans, Utah)
55 Dikembe Mutombo† Atlanta Hawks C 1996–2001
59 Kasim Reed Atlanta Hawks — 2010–2018 As mayor of Atlanta. Number represents his status as the 59th mayor of the city.
— Ted Turner Atlanta Hawks — 1977–2001 As team owner. While the team presented Turner a framed Hawks jersey with No. 17, the banner raised to the rafters carried an old Hawks logo with Turner's name instead of a number. [2]
00 Robert Parish† Boston Celtics C 1980–1994 [3]
1 Walter A. Brown† Boston Celtics — 1946–1964 As team founder–owner. [3]
2 Red Auerbach† Boston Celtics — 1950–2006 As head coach (1950–1966) and executive (1950–2006). [3]
3 Dennis Johnson† Boston Celtics G 1983–1990 Served as assistant coach from 1993 to 1997. [3]
5 Kevin Garnett† Boston Celtics F 2007–2013
6‡ Bill Russell† Boston Celtics C 1956–1969 Russell's #6 was first retired in the Boston Garden on March 12, 1972, but due to Russell's tense relationship with the media and fans at the time, the ceremony was closed to the public. On May 26, 1999, Russell's number was re-retired in a public ceremony at the FleetCenter.
Also served as head coach (1966–1969).
Number retired league-wide in 2022.[4]		 [3]
10 Jo Jo White† Boston Celtics G 1969–1979 [3]
14 Bob Cousy† Boston Celtics G 1950–1963 Later served as team ambassador and color analyst. [3]
15 Tom Heinsohn† Boston Celtics F 1956–1965 Also served as head coach (1969–1978); as broadcaster (1980–2020). [3]
16 Satch Sanders† Boston Celtics F 1960–1973 Also served as head coach (1978). [3]
17 John Havlicek† Boston Celtics F 1962–1978 [3]
18 Dave Cowens† Boston Celtics C 1970–1980 Also served as head coach (1978–1979). [3]
19 Don Nelson† Boston Celtics F 1965–1976 [3]
21 Bill Sharman† Boston Celtics G 1951–1961 [3]
22 Ed Macauley† Boston Celtics C 1950–1956 [3]
23 Frank Ramsey† Boston Celtics F 1954–1964 Did not play in the 1955–56 season due to military service. [3]
24 Sam Jones† Boston Celtics G 1957–1969 [3]
25 K. C. Jones† Boston Celtics G 1958–1967 Also served as head coach (1983–1988). [3]
31 Cedric Maxwell Boston Celtics F 1977–1985 Also served as broadcaster (2001–present); briefly wore no. 30 in 1977–78. [3]
32 Kevin McHale† Boston Celtics F 1980–1993 [3]
33 Larry Bird† Boston Celtics F 1979–1992 [3]
34 Paul Pierce† Boston Celtics F 1998–2013
35 Reggie Lewis Boston Celtics G 1987–1993 Died of a heart attack while still playing for the team; number retired posthumously. [3]
LOSCY[a] Jim Loscutoff Boston Celtics F 1955–1964 Wore no. 18 but decided to keep it active; number ultimately retired for Dave Cowens. [3]
🎤 Johnny Most Boston Celtics — 1953–1990 As broadcaster. [3]
3 Dražen Petrović† Brooklyn Nets G 1991–1993 Died in a car crash while playing for the team; with the team when it was known as the New Jersey Nets.[5] His jersey was retired posthumously. [6]
5 Jason Kidd† Brooklyn Nets G 2001–2008 The team was then the New Jersey Nets.
Also served as head coach (2013–2014). 		[6]
15 Vince Carter† Brooklyn Nets G 2004–2009 The team was then the New Jersey Nets. (To be retired January 25, 2025) [6]
23 John Williamson Brooklyn Nets G 1973–1980 During his first four seasons (1973–1977), the team was on Long Island and known as the New York Nets; for the rest of his career with the team, it was the New Jersey Nets. [6]
25 Bill Melchionni Brooklyn Nets G 1969–1976 The team was then on Long Island as the New York Nets. [6]
32 Julius Erving† Brooklyn Nets F 1973–1976 The team was then on Long Island as the New York Nets. Erving's number was retired by the Nets on April 3, 1987, during his final NBA season as a player with the Philadelphia 76ers. [6]
52 Buck Williams Brooklyn Nets F 1981–1989 The team was then the New Jersey Nets. [6]
13 Bobby Phills Charlotte Hornets G 1997–2000 Died in a car crash while playing for the original incarnation of the team. His jersey was retired posthumously.
4 Jerry Sloan† Chicago Bulls G 1966–1976 Also served as head coach (1979–1982). [7]
10 Bob Love Chicago Bulls F 1968–1976 Bulls Director of Community Affairs since 1993 [7]
23 Michael Jordan† Chicago Bulls G 1984–1993
1995–1998 		Briefly wore no. 45 in 1995 & 12 for one game in 1990 (due to his jersey being stolen). [8]
33 Scottie Pippen† Chicago Bulls F 1987–1998
2003–2004 		[8]
— Phil Jackson†[b] Chicago Bulls — 1989–1998 As head coach (1989–1998). [9]
— Jerry Krause†[b] Chicago Bulls — 1985–2003 As general manager (1985–2003). [9]
— Johnny Kerr Chicago Bulls — 1966–2009 As head coach (1966–1968), business manager (1973–1975) and broadcaster (1977–2009).
7 Bingo Smith Cleveland Cavaliers F 1970–1979 [10]
11 Zydrunas Ilgauskas Cleveland Cavaliers C 1996–2010 Did not play in 1996–97 and 1999–2000 seasons due to injury. [10]
22 Larry Nance Cleveland Cavaliers F 1988–1994 Briefly wore no. 6 in 1988.
Number unretired for his son Larry Nance Jr. from 2018 to 2021.
 [10]
25 Mark Price Cleveland Cavaliers G 1986–1995 [10]
34 Austin Carr Cleveland Cavaliers G 1971–1980 [10]
42 Nate Thurmond† Cleveland Cavaliers C 1975–1977 [10]
43 Brad Daugherty Cleveland Cavaliers C 1986–1996 Did not play in 1994–95 and 1995–96 seasons due to injury. [10]
🎤 Joe Tait Cleveland Cavaliers — 1970–1981
1983–2011 		As broadcaster. [10]
— Nick Gilbert Cleveland Cavaliers — Late son of Cavs owner Dan Gilbert [10]
12 Derek Harper Dallas Mavericks G 1983–1994
1996–1997
15 Brad Davis Dallas Mavericks G 1980–1992 [11]
22 Rolando Blackman Dallas Mavericks G 1981–1992 [11]
41 Dirk Nowitzki† Dallas Mavericks F/C 1998–2019
2 Alex English† Denver Nuggets F 1980–1990 [12]
12 Fat Lever Denver Nuggets G 1984–1990
33 David Thompson† Denver Nuggets F 1975–1982 [12]
40 Byron Beck Denver Nuggets C 1967–1977 [12]
44 Dan Issel† Denver Nuggets C 1975–1985 Worked a variety roles in the Nuggets organization after retirement, including broadcaster (1988–1992), head coach (1992–1995, 1999–2001), and president/general manager (1998–1999) [12]
55 Dikembe Mutombo† Denver Nuggets C 1991–1996 [13]
432 Doug Moe Denver Nuggets — 1980–1990 As head coach; the number represents his 432 victories coaching the Nuggets. [12]
1 Chauncey Billups† Detroit Pistons G 2002–2008
2013–2014 		Number worn by Reggie Jackson at the time of the announcement, and was allowed to keep it until his departure in 2020.
2 Chuck Daly† Detroit Pistons — 1983–1992 As head coach; the number represents the two NBA championship teams he coached. Number unretired for Cade Cunningham since 2021, with permission from the Daly family. [14]
3 Ben Wallace† Detroit Pistons C 2000–2006
2009–2012 		Number worn by Stanley Johnson at the time of the announcement; switched to No. 7 before the 2016–17 season out of respect to Wallace.
Also wore no. 6 from 2009 to 2012.
4 Joe Dumars† Detroit Pistons G 1985–1999 Also served as team president (2000–2014). [14]
10 Dennis Rodman† Detroit Pistons F 1986–1993 Greg Monroe wore the number at the time of the announcement, and was allowed to wear it until his departure in 2015. [14][15]
11 Isiah Thomas† Detroit Pistons G 1981–1994 Wore no. 42 for one playoff game in 1985 (due to his jersey stolen). [14]
15 Vinnie Johnson Detroit Pistons G 1981–1991 Served as a color analyst on Pistons radio broadcasts (1990–2001) [14]
16 Bob Lanier† Detroit Pistons C 1970–1980 [14]
21 Dave Bing† Detroit Pistons G 1966–1975 Served as the 74th mayor of Detroit (2009–2013) [14]
32 Richard Hamilton Detroit Pistons G/F 2002–2011
40 Bill Laimbeer Detroit Pistons C 1982–1993 [14]
— William Davidson† Detroit Pistons — 1974–2009 As team owner. [14]
— Jack McCloskey Detroit Pistons — 1979–1992 As general manager. [14]
13 Wilt Chamberlain† Golden State Warriors C 1959–1965 Team was in Philadelphia (1959–1962) and in San Francisco (1962–1965).
Only player to have the same number retired by three different teams (Golden State, L.A. Lakers and Philadelphia) 		[16]
14 Tom Meschery Golden State Warriors F 1961–1967 Team was in Philadelphia (1961–1962) and San Francisco (1962–1967). [16]
16 Al Attles† Golden State Warriors G 1960–1971 Also served as head coach (1969–1983). [16]
17 Chris Mullin† Golden State Warriors SG/SF 1985–1997
2000–2001 		Also served as Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations (2004–2009). [16]
24 Rick Barry† Golden State Warriors F 1965–1967
1972–1978 		[16]
42 Nate Thurmond† Golden State Warriors C 1963–1974 Team bore the San Francisco name 1963–1971 before adopting the Golden State name starting with the 1971–72 season. [16]
11 Yao Ming† Houston Rockets C 2002–2011 Did not play in 2009–10 season due to injury. [17]
22 Clyde Drexler† Houston Rockets G 1995–1998 Also served as broadcaster (2005–2020). [17]
23 Calvin Murphy† Houston Rockets G 1970–1983 Team was in San Diego (1970–1971).
Also served as broadcaster (1985–2004). 		[17]
24 Moses Malone† Houston Rockets C 1976–1982 Wore no. 21 during the 1976–77 season. [17]
34 Hakeem Olajuwon† Houston Rockets C 1984–2001 [17]
44 Elvin Hayes† Houston Rockets F 1968–1972
1981–1984 		Wore no. 11 from 1968 to 1971; team was in San Diego during that span. [18]
45 Rudy Tomjanovich† Houston Rockets F 1970–1981 Team was in San Diego (1970–1971).
Also served as head coach (1991–2003). 		[17]
CD Carroll Dawson[c] Houston Rockets — 1980–2007 As assistant coach (1980–1995) and general manager (1995–2007). [19]
30 George McGinnis† Indiana Pacers F 1971–1975
1980–1982
31 Reggie Miller† Indiana Pacers G 1987–2005
34 Mel Daniels† Indiana Pacers C 1967–1974 Also served as head coach (1988).
35 Roger Brown† Indiana Pacers F 1967–1974 Coming from ABA Pacers. He did not play a match in the NBA.
529 Bobby Leonard† Indiana Pacers — 1968–1980 As head coach; the number represents his 529 victories coaching the Pacers.
8 Kobe Bryant† Los Angeles Lakers G 1996–2016 Only player to have two numbers retired by the same team.
13 Wilt Chamberlain† Los Angeles Lakers C 1968–1973 Only player to have the same number retired by three different teams (Golden State, L.A. Lakers and Philadelphia)
16 Pau Gasol† Los Angeles Lakers C 2008–2014 First pair of siblings, with brother Marc Gasol to have jerseys retired by NBA teams.
21 Michael Cooper† Los Angeles Lakers G 1978–1990 To be retired January 13, 2025. [20]
22 Elgin Baylor† Los Angeles Lakers F 1958–1971 The team was in Minneapolis in his first two seasons (1958–1960).
24 Kobe Bryant† Los Angeles Lakers G 2006–2016 Only player to have two numbers retired by the same team.
25 Gail Goodrich† Los Angeles Lakers G 1965–1968
1970–1976 		Wore no. 11 from 1965 to 1968.
Eddie Jones, the last Lakers player to wear no. 25, switched to no. 6 shortly before Goodrich's number was retired.
32 Earvin "Magic" Johnson† Los Angeles Lakers G 1979–1991
1996 		Also served as head coach in 1994, and President of Basketball Operations (2017–2019).
33 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar† Los Angeles Lakers C 1975–1989
34 Shaquille O'Neal† Los Angeles Lakers C 1996–2004 One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (L.A. Lakers, Miami and Orlando). [21]
42 James Worthy† Los Angeles Lakers F 1982–1994
44 Jerry West† Los Angeles Lakers G 1960–1974 Also served as head coach (1976–1979) and general manager (1981–2002).
52 Jamaal Wilkes† Los Angeles Lakers F 1977–1985 Born Jackson Keith Wilkes, changed his name to Jamaal Abdul-Lateef in 1975, maintaining his original surname for purposes of public recognition.
99 George Mikan† Los Angeles Lakers C 1947–1954
1956 		Also served as head coach (1957–1958); the team was in Minneapolis throughout his tenure in both roles. [22]
🎤 Chick Hearn† Los Angeles Lakers — 1961–2002 As broadcaster.
33 Marc Gasol Memphis Grizzlies F 2008–2019 First pair of siblings, with brother Pau Gasol to have jerseys retired by NBA teams.
50 Zach Randolph Memphis Grizzlies F 2009–2017
🎤 Don Poier Memphis Grizzlies — 1995–2005 As broadcaster
1 Chris Bosh† Miami Heat F/C 2010–2017 Did not play in 2016–17 season due to injury. [23]
3 Dwyane Wade† Miami Heat G 2003–2016
2018–2019 		[24]
10 Tim Hardaway† Miami Heat G 1996–2001 [25]
13 Dan Marino Miami Heat QB — Never played professional basketball, but left a large impact on Miami during his NFL Hall of Fame career with the Dolphins.
Still available in circulation (number currently worn by Bam Adebayo). 		[26]
23 Michael Jordan† Miami Heat G — Never played for the franchise; number retired for "contributions to basketball". [27][28]
32 Shaquille O'Neal† Miami Heat C 2004–2008 One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (L.A. Lakers, Miami and Orlando). [29]
33 Alonzo Mourning† Miami Heat C 1995–2003
2005–2008 		Did not play in 2002–03 season due to injury. Since 2009, Vice President of Player Programs and Development [30]
40 Udonis Haslem Miami Heat F/C 2003–2023 Named Vice President of Basketball Development shortly after retiring from play.[31] [32]
1 Oscar Robertson† Milwaukee Bucks G 1970–1974 Retired October 18, 1974 [33]
2 Junior Bridgeman Milwaukee Bucks F 1975–1984
1986–1987 		[34]
4 Sidney Moncrief† Milwaukee Bucks G 1979–1989 [35]
8 Marques Johnson Milwaukee Bucks F 1977–1984 Television color analyst since 2015. [36]
10 Bob Dandridge† Milwaukee Bucks F 1969–1977
1981
14 Jon McGlocklin Milwaukee Bucks G 1968–1976 Also served as broadcaster (1985–2018). [37]
16 Bob Lanier† Milwaukee Bucks C 1980–1984 [38]
32 Brian Winters Milwaukee Bucks G 1975–1983 [39]
33 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar† Milwaukee Bucks C 1969–1975 Served under the name of Lew Alcindor for two seasons before becoming Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. [40]
2 Malik Sealy Minnesota Timberwolves F 1997–2000 Died in a car crash while playing for the team.[41] His jersey was retired posthumously.
Flip Flip Saunders Minnesota Timberwolves — 1995–2005
2014–2015 		As Head coach.
7 Pete Maravich† New Orleans Pelicans G — Never played for the franchise, jersey retired for his contributions to basketball of Louisiana. He played for the New Orleans Jazz (now the Utah Jazz) 1974–1979 in NBA and for LSU Tigers 1967–1970 in NCAA.
One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (Atlanta, New Orleans, Utah)
10 Walt Frazier† New York Knicks G 1967–1977 Also served as a broadcaster.
12 Dick Barnett† New York Knicks G 1965–1973
15 Earl Monroe† New York Knicks G 1971–1980 Wore no. 33 for a few games in the 1971–72 season.
15 Dick McGuire† New York Knicks G 1949–1957 Also served as head coach (1965–1968) and scouting director.
19 Willis Reed† New York Knicks C 1964–1974 Also served as head coach (1977–1978).
22 Dave DeBusschere† New York Knicks F 1968–1974 Also served as general manager (1982–1986).
24 Bill Bradley† New York Knicks F 1967–1977 From 1979 to 1997, US Senator (D) from New Jersey
33 Patrick Ewing† New York Knicks C 1985–2000
613 Red Holzman† New York Knicks — 1967–1977
1978–1982 		As head coach; the number represents his 613 victories coaching the Knicks.
4 Nick Collison Oklahoma City Thunder F/C 2003–2018 Did not play in 2003–04 season due to injury. The team was in Seattle (Seattle SuperSonics) in his first five seasons (2003–2008).
6 Sixth man Orlando Magic — — Temporarily unretired for Patrick Ewing during the 2001–02 season, as his customary no. 33 was worn by Grant Hill.
32 Shaquille O'Neal† Orlando Magic C 1992–1996 One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (L.A. Lakers, Miami and Orlando).
2 Moses Malone† Philadelphia 76ers C 1982–1986
1993–1994
3 Allen Iverson† Philadelphia 76ers G 1996–2006
2009–2010
4 Dolph Schayes† Philadelphia 76ers F/C 1949–1964 Team was known as the Syracuse Nationals (1948–1963).
Also served as player-coach (1963–66).
Number retired posthumously.
Nerlens Noel wore the number at the time of the announcement, and was allowed to wear it until his departure in 2017.
Wore No. 55 for part of the 1949–50 season. 		[42]
6 Julius Erving† Philadelphia 76ers F 1976–1987
10 Maurice Cheeks† Philadelphia 76ers G 1978–1989 Also served as head coach (2005–2008).
13 Wilt Chamberlain† Philadelphia 76ers C 1965–1968 Only player to have the same number retired by three different teams (Golden State, L.A. Lakers and Philadelphia).
15 Hal Greer† Philadelphia 76ers G 1958–1973
24 Bobby Jones† Philadelphia 76ers F 1978–1986 On January 28, 2020, jersey was temporarily, with Jones' permission, issued to Joel Embiid as a tribute to Kobe Bryant.[43]
32 Billy Cunningham Philadelphia 76ers F 1965–1972
1974–1975 		Also served as head coach (1977–1985); briefly un-retired for Charles Barkley in the 1991–92 season.[44]
34 Charles Barkley† Philadelphia 76ers F 1984–1992 Also wore #32 during the 1991–92 season as a tribute to Magic Johnson (see Billy Cunningham).
🎤 Dave Zinkoff Philadelphia 76ers — 1963–1981
1983–1985 		As P.A. announcer.
5 Dick Van Arsdale Phoenix Suns G 1968–1977 Also served as head coach (1987).
6 Walter Davis† Phoenix Suns G 1977–1988
7 Kevin Johnson Phoenix Suns G 1987–1998
2000 		Retired in 1998, but came back before the end of the 1999–2000 season before retiring again; Served as the 55th mayor of Sacramento (2008–2016).
9 Dan Majerle Phoenix Suns G/F 1988–1995
2001–2002 		Number was previously only considered "honored" by the Suns on March 9, 2003 before considered properly retired by the franchise on October 28, 2023.[45]
13 Steve Nash† Phoenix Suns G 1996–1998
2004–2012 		Number was previously only considered "honored" by the Suns on October 30, 2015 before considered properly retired by the franchise on October 28, 2023.[45]
24 Tom Chambers Phoenix Suns F 1988–1993 Number was previously only considered "honored" by the Suns on April 18, 1999 (as noted with Tom Gugliotta wearing Chambers' number while with the Suns from 1999 until 2004) before considered properly retired by the franchise on October 28, 2023.[45]
31 Shawn Marion Phoenix Suns F 1999–2008
32

Amar'e Stoudemire

Phoenix Suns F 2002–2010 Wore no. 1 from 2006 to 2010.
33[d] Alvan Adams Phoenix Suns C 1975–1988 Number unretired for Grant Hill from 2007 to 2013.
34 Charles Barkley† Phoenix Suns F 1992–1996 Number was previously only considered "honored" by the Suns on March 20, 2004 before considered properly retired by the franchise on October 28, 2023.[45]
42 Connie Hawkins† Phoenix Suns F 1968–1974
44 Paul Westphal† Phoenix Suns G 1975–1980
1983–1984 		Also served as head coach (1992–1996).
—

Jerry Colangelo†

Phoenix Suns — 1968–2005 As owner, executive, and head coach (1970; 1972–73).
— Cotton Fitzsimmons† Phoenix Suns — 1970–1972
1988–1992
1996 		As head coach; inducted in the Suns' Ring of Honor posthumously.
— John MacLeod Phoenix Suns — 1973–1987 As head coach. Also served as assistant head coach in the 1999–2000 NBA season.
— Joe Proski Phoenix Suns — 1968–2000 As athletic trainer.
🎤 Al McCoy Phoenix Suns — 1972–2023 As broadcaster
1 Larry Weinberg Portland Trail Blazers — 1970–1988 As team founder and owner; number still available (currently worn by Anfernee Simons).
13 Dave Twardzik Portland Trail Blazers G 1976–1981
14 Lionel Hollins Portland Trail Blazers G 1975–1981
15 Larry Steele Portland Trail Blazers G 1971–1981
20 Maurice Lucas Portland Trail Blazers F 1976–1981
1987–1988
22 Clyde Drexler† Portland Trail Blazers G 1983–1995
30 Terry Porter Portland Trail Blazers G 1985–1995
30 Bob Gross Portland Trail Blazers F 1975–1982
32 Bill Walton† Portland Trail Blazers C 1974–1979 Did not play in 1978–79 season due to injury.
36 Lloyd Neal Portland Trail Blazers C 1972–1979
45 Geoff Petrie Portland Trail Blazers G 1970–1976
77 Jack Ramsay† Portland Trail Blazers — 1976–1986 As head coach; the number represents the 1977 NBA Championship he won while coaching the Blazers.
🎤 Bill Schonely Portland Trail Blazers — 1970–1998 As Broadcaster
1 Nate Archibald† Sacramento Kings G 1970–1976 During his career with the team, it was known first as the Cincinnati Royals (1970–1972), then the Kansas City–Omaha Kings (1972–1975), and finally as the Kansas City Kings (1975–1976). He wore no. 10 from 1970 to 1974.
2 Mitch Richmond† Sacramento Kings G 1991–1998
4 Chris Webber† Sacramento Kings F 1998–2005
6 Sixth man Sacramento Kings
11 Bob Davies† Sacramento Kings G 1948–1955 The team was then known as the Rochester Royals.
Unretired for Domantas Sabonis starting with the 2024–25 season, with blessing from the Davies family.
12 Maurice Stokes† Sacramento Kings F 1955–1958 The team was known as the Rochester Royals (1955–1957) and moved to Cincinnati starting with the 1957–58 season in which his career was ended by a crippling head injury.
14 Oscar Robertson† Sacramento Kings G 1960–1970 The team was then known as the Cincinnati Royals.
16 Peja Stojakovic Sacramento Kings F 1999–2006 Director of player personnel and development (2015), assistant General Manager (2018)
21 Vlade Divac† Sacramento Kings C 1999–2004 Vice president and general manager of basketball operations (2015–2020)
27 Jack Twyman† Sacramento Kings F 1955–1966 The team was known as the Rochester Royals (1955–1957) and then as the Cincinnati Royals for the remainder of his career.
44 Sam Lacey Sacramento Kings C 1970–1981 During his career with the team, it was known first as the Cincinnati Royals (1970–1972), then the Kansas City–Omaha Kings (1972–1975), and finally as the Kansas City Kings (1975–1981).
00 Johnny Moore San Antonio Spurs G 1980–1987
1989–1990
6 Avery Johnson San Antonio Spurs G 1991
1992–1993
1994–2001 		Wore no. 15 during his first stint with the Spurs (1991).
9 Tony Parker† San Antonio Spurs G 2001–2018
12 Bruce Bowen San Antonio Spurs F 2001–2009 Unretired for LaMarcus Aldridge from 2015 to 2021. [46]
13 James Silas San Antonio Spurs G 1973–1981
20 Manu Ginobili† San Antonio Spurs G 2002–2018 [47]
21 Tim Duncan† San Antonio Spurs F/C 1997–2016 Assistant coach from 2019 to 2020.
32 Sean Elliott San Antonio Spurs F 1989–1993
1994–2001 		Currently serves as a Spurs' TV color analyst (2004–present)
44 George Gervin† San Antonio Spurs G 1974–1985
50 David Robinson† San Antonio Spurs C 1989–2003
1[e] Gus Williams Seattle SuperSonics G 1976–1985
10[e] Nate McMillan Seattle SuperSonics G 1985–1998 Played for the Seattle SuperSonics and served as their head coach (2000–2005).
19[e] Lenny Wilkens† Seattle SuperSonics G 1968–1972 Played for the Seattle SuperSonics and served as their head coach (1969–1972; 1977–1985), and as a broadcaster (2006–2008).
24[e] Spencer Haywood† Seattle SuperSonics F 1971–1975
32[e] Fred Brown Seattle SuperSonics G 1971–1984
43[e] Jack Sikma† Seattle SuperSonics C 1977–1986 Also served as assistant coach (2003–2007).
🎤[e] Bob Blackburn Seattle SuperSonics — 1967–1992 Announcer for the Seattle SuperSonics.
15 Vince Carter† Toronto Raptors G/F 1998–2004 [6]
1 Frank Layden Utah Jazz — 1981–1988 As head coach; also served as team president (1988–1998). [48]
4 Adrian Dantley† Utah Jazz F 1979–1986 [48][49]
7 Pete Maravich† Utah Jazz G 1974–1980 The team was in New Orleans 1974–1979.
He also played 17 games of the 1979–80 season after the team moved to Salt Lake City.
Wore no. 44 in the 1974–75 season.
One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (Atlanta, New Orleans, Utah) 		[48]
9 Larry Miller Utah Jazz — 1985–2009 As owner. [48][50]
12 John Stockton† Utah Jazz G 1984–2003 [48][51]
14 Jeff Hornacek Utah Jazz G 1994–2000 Also served as assistant coach (2011–2013). [48]
32 Karl Malone† Utah Jazz F 1985–2003 [48][52]
35 Darrell Griffith Utah Jazz G 1980–1991 [48]
53 Mark Eaton Utah Jazz C 1982–1993 [48]
1,223 Jerry Sloan† Utah Jazz — 1988–2011 As head coach; the number represents his 1223 victories coaching the Jazz. [48]
🎤 Hot Rod Hundley Utah Jazz — 1974–2009 As broadcaster. [48]
10 Earl Monroe† Washington Wizards G 1967–1971 The team was then known as the Baltimore Bullets.
Wore no. 33 during the 1967–68 season.
11 Elvin Hayes† Washington Wizards F 1972–1981 When he joined the team, it was known as the Baltimore Bullets. After one season, the team moved to Landover, Maryland, adopting the name of Capital Bullets for the 1973–74 season before being known as the Washington Bullets.
25 Gus Johnson† Washington Wizards F 1963–1972 The team was then known as the Baltimore Bullets.
41 Wes Unseld† Washington Wizards C 1968–1981 When he started his career with the team, it was known as the Baltimore Bullets. In 1973, the team moved to Landover, Maryland, adopting the name of Capital Bullets for the 1973–74 season before being known as the Washington Bullets. Also served as head coach (1987–1994), as well as three stints in the team's front office (vice president, 1981–1987; general manager, 1996–1999, 2003); the team did not adopt the Wizards nickname until the 1997–98 season.
45 Phil Chenier Washington Wizards G 1971–1979 When he joined the team, it was known as the Baltimore Bullets. After two seasons, the team moved to Landover, Maryland, adopting the name of Capital Bullets for the 1973–74 season before being known as the Washington Bullets.
Also served as broadcaster (1984–2017).

Honored numbers

[edit]

Cleveland has introduced in 2019 a Wall of Honor, which honors former players and other personnel.

Phoenix also previously honored numbers from 1999 until 2023 during their Ring of Honor ceremonies.

Chicago has introduced a Ring of Honor in January 2024, with all of the previously retired numbers and banners, plus other significant personnel in Bulls' history, as well as one full team.

The Lakers have also honored their most notable players during the stint of the franchise in Minneapolis. Although their numbers are displayed on the banners, only the No. 22 and No. 34 are officially retired, since they were retired for Elgin Baylor and Shaquille O'Neal respectively.[53] George Mikan was also promoted from being an honored number for his time with the Minneapolis Lakers to being retired by the Los Angeles Lakers properly on October 30, 2022.

NBA honored numbers
No. Name Team Pos. Years with franchise Note Refs
7 Toni Kukoč† Chicago Bulls F 1993–2000
25 Chet Walker† Chicago Bulls F 1969–1975
53 Artis Gilmore† Chicago Bulls C 1976–1982; 1987
91 Dennis Rodman† Chicago Bulls F 1995–1998
— Dick Klein Chicago Bulls — 1967-1972 As owner
— Tex Winter† Chicago Bulls — 1985-1999 As Assistant Coach
18 John "Hot Rod" Williams Cleveland Cavaliers F/C 1986–1995
32 John Johnson Cleveland Cavaliers F 1970–1973
21 World B. Free Cleveland Cavaliers G 1982–1986
20, 4 Campy Russell Cleveland Cavaliers F 1974–1980, 1984 Broadcaster. Cavalier's Director of Alumni Relations
1, 11 Terrell Brandon Cleveland Cavaliers PG 1991–1997
30 Mike Mitchell Cleveland Cavaliers SF 1978–1981
22 Jim Chones Cleveland Cavaliers C 1974–1979
— Wayne Embry† Cleveland Cavaliers — 1986–1999 As General manager; first African-American sports team general manager
— Bill Fitch† Cleveland Cavaliers — 1970–1979 Original general manager and coach
— Lenny Wilkens† Cleveland Cavaliers — 1986–1993 As head Coach
— Nick Mileti Cleveland Cavaliers — 1970–1980 Original owner of the team
— Gordon Gund Cleveland Cavaliers — 1983–2005 As owner
— Chuck Broski Cleveland Cavaliers — 1970–present As stats crew chief
17 Jim Pollard†[f] Los Angeles Lakers F 1948–1955 Also served as head coach (1960); the team was in Minneapolis throughout his tenure in both roles.
19 Vern Mikkelsen†[f] Los Angeles Lakers F 1949–1959 Team was then in Minneapolis.
22 Slater Martin†[f] Los Angeles Lakers G 1949–1956 Team was then in Minneapolis.
34 Clyde Lovellette†[f] Los Angeles Lakers F/C 1953–1957 Team was then in Minneapolis.
— John Kundla†[f] Los Angeles Lakers — 1948–1959 As head coach (1948–1957, 1958–1959); the team was in Minneapolis.

One player, multiple teams

[edit]

A handful of players who had notable careers for multiple teams have had their numbers retired by each team. Bill Russell (whose number was retired league-wide), Michael Jordan, and Pete Maravich had their numbers retired by teams they never played for.

  • Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had his no. 33 retired by both the Bucks and Lakers.
  • Wilt Chamberlain had his no. 13 retired by the Warriors, 76ers, and Lakers. To date, he is one of only three players to have his jersey retired by 3 different teams, alongside Pete Maravich and Shaquille O'Neal.
  • Charles Barkley had his no. 34 retired by both the 76ers and Suns.
  • Vince Carter had his no. 15 jersey retired by the Raptors and is scheduled to have his no. 15 jersey retired by the Nets.
  • Clyde Drexler had his no. 22 retired by both the Trail Blazers and Rockets.
  • Julius Erving had his no. 32 retired by the Nets, and his no. 6 retired by the 76ers.
  • Elvin Hayes had his no. 11 retired by the Wizards, and his no. 44 by the Rockets.
  • Michael Jordan had his no. 23 retired by both the Bulls and Heat. Jordan is one of three players to have his jersey retired by a team he never played for.
  • Bob Lanier had his no. 16 retired by both the Pistons and Bucks.
  • Pete Maravich had his no. 44 retired by the Hawks, while his no. 7 is retired by both the Jazz and Pelicans. Maravich is one of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams, alongside Wilt Chamberlain and Shaquille O'Neal.
  • Moses Malone has his no. 24 retired by the Rockets, while his no. 2 is retired by the 76ers.
  • Earl Monroe had his no. 15 retired by the Knicks, and his no. 10 by the Wizards.
  • Dikembe Mutombo had his no. 55 retired by both the Nuggets and Hawks.
  • Shaquille O'Neal had his no. 34 retired by the Lakers, and his no. 32 by both the Heat and the Magic. O'Neal is one of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams, alongside Wilt Chamberlain and Pete Maravich.
  • Dennis Rodman had his no. 10 retired by the Pistons, and his no. 91 appears in the Bulls' Ring of Honor .
  • Oscar Robertson had his no. 14 retired by the Kings, and his no. 1 by the Bucks.
  • On August 11, 2022, 12 days after his death, Bill Russell had his no. 6 retired league-wide, the first and thus far only NBA player to receive the honor.[54] Russell had previously had his number retired by the Celtics on March 12, 1972.
  • Jerry Sloan had his no. 4 retired by the Bulls, and no. 1,223 by the Jazz, signifying his total victories as their coach.
  • Nate Thurmond had his no. 42 retired by both the Warriors and Cavaliers.
  • Lenny Wilkens had his no. 19 retired by the Sonics, and his name appears in the Cavaliers' Wall of Honor.

One team, multiple players

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The following numbers have been retired by a single team in honor of multiple players:

One player, one team, multiple numbers

[edit]

The following numbers have been retired by a single team in honor of one player:

  • Los Angeles Lakers' nos. 8 and 24 retired for Kobe Bryant in 2017.

See also

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Notes

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  1. ^ Loscutoff asked that his number (No. 18) not be retired to allow future Celtics to wear it. His number is represented by "LOSCY." His number 18 was later retired in honor of Cowens.[3]
  2. ^ a b Jackson and Krause do not have actual numbers retired in their honor.
  3. ^ Dawson does not have an actual number retired in his honor; rather, a banner with his initials is hanging from the rafters to pay tribute to his 27 years of service to the team.[19]
  4. ^ Although No. 33 is retired, Grant Hill received permission from Adams to wear it during his time with the Suns.
  5. ^ a b c d e f g As a result of the Seattle SuperSonics relocation to Oklahoma City in 2008, the SuperSonics' history (including retired numbers) is shared with the Oklahoma City Thunder, although the team colors, uniforms and logos remain available for use by a future NBA team in Seattle.
  6. ^ a b c d e Numbers hang to the rafters as honored Minneapolis Lakers. These five Hall-of-Famers were instrumental to the franchise's success during its days in Minneapolis. Except for 22, which was retired for Baylor, and 34, which was retired for O'Neal, these "honored numbers" are still available.

References

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General
  • "Team-by-team retired jersey numbers". NBA.com. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. September 25, 2011. Archived from the original on October 20, 2012. Retrieved October 27, 2012.
Specific
  1. ^ a b c "2008–09 Hawks Media Guide, p.194" (PDF). NBA.com/Hawks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 5, 2012. Retrieved March 23, 2009.
  2. ^ "Hawks Raise Banner To Honor Ted Turner". NBA.com/Hawks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. November 30, 2004. Retrieved May 24, 2012.
  3. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x "Retired Numbers". NBA.com/Celtics. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved March 23, 2009.
  4. ^ "Bill Russell's No. 6 to be retired across NBA following legend's death last month". ESPN.com. August 11, 2022.
  5. ^ Freeman, Mike (June 8, 1993). "Basketball; Nets' Petrovic Dies in Auto Accident in Germany". The New York Times. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h "Retired Numbers". NBA.com/Nets. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original on August 26, 2010. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  7. ^ a b "2008–09 Bulls Media Guide, p.325" (PDF). NBA.com/Bulls. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 5, 2012. Retrieved March 23, 2009.
  8. ^ a b "2008–09 Bulls Media Guide, p.326" (PDF). NBA.com/Bulls. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 5, 2012. Retrieved March 23, 2009.
  9. ^ a b "2008–09 Bulls Media Guide, p.327" (PDF). NBA.com/Bulls. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 5, 2012. Retrieved March 23, 2009.
  10. ^ a b c d e f g h i "History". NBA.com/Cavaliers. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved March 24, 2009.
  11. ^ a b "History". NBA.com/Mavericks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original on December 3, 2010. Retrieved March 24, 2009.
  12. ^ a b c d e "Denver Nuggets". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 14, 2010. Retrieved May 14, 2010.
  13. ^ "Nuggets to Retire Dikembe Mutombo's #55 Jersey". NBA.com. September 26, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
  14. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "Detroit Pistons". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 14, 2010. Retrieved May 14, 2010.
  15. ^ "Pistons to retire Dennis Rodman jersey". ESPN.com. February 11, 2011. Retrieved February 12, 2011.
  16. ^ a b c d e f "Golden State Warriors". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 15, 2010. Retrieved May 15, 2010.
  17. ^ a b c d e f "Houston Rockets". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 15, 2010. Retrieved May 15, 2010.
  18. ^ "Rockets to Retire No. 44 in Honor of Elvin Hayes". NBA.com. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved September 1, 2022.
  19. ^ a b "2009–10 Rockets Media Guide, p.146" (PDF). NBA.com/Rockets. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 8, 2012. Retrieved May 15, 2010.
  20. ^ "Los Angeles Lakers Announce 2024-25 Season Schedule Presented by Delta Air Lines". www.nba.com. Retrieved August 23, 2024.
  21. ^ Pincus, Eric (April 2, 2013). "Lakers retire Shaquille O'Neal's jersey". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
  22. ^ "Lakers retire George Mikan's No. 99 jersey in pregame ceremony". NBA.com. October 30, 2022. Retrieved October 31, 2022.
  23. ^ "HEAT To Retire Chris Bosh's No. 1 Jersey". NBA.com. February 4, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2019.
  24. ^ Chiang, Anthony (February 22, 2020). "Heat retires Dwyane Wade's jersey in emotional halftime ceremony. Wade: 'I'm just thankful'". Miami Herald. Retrieved February 23, 2020.
  25. ^ "Hardaway's Heat jersey retired". ESPN. October 29, 2009. Retrieved May 17, 2010.
  26. ^ "Dan Marino's jersey is retired by the Miami Heat". Fansided. March 16, 2015. Retrieved May 23, 2017.
  27. ^ "NBA says it likely won't retire Jordan's No. 23". MSNBC.com. NBC Universal. November 14, 2009. Archived from the original on October 8, 2012. Retrieved May 17, 2010.
  28. ^ "Miami Franchise retires Michael Jordan's No. 23". The Tuscaloosa News. April 10, 2003. Retrieved May 17, 2010.
  29. ^ "Miami Heat to retire Shaquille O'Neal's No. 32 jersey". February 9, 2016.
  30. ^ "Heat retire Mourning's No. 33". ESPN. March 31, 2009. Retrieved May 17, 2010.
  31. ^ "Udonis Haslem Joins Heat Front Office" (Press release). Miami Heat. November 7, 2023. Retrieved January 20, 2024.
  32. ^ Reynolds, Tim (January 19, 2024). "Heat retire Udonis Haslem's No. 40 jersey. He's the 6th Miami player to receive the honor". Associated Press News. Retrieved January 20, 2024.
  33. ^ "Retired Numbers: Oscar Robertson". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  34. ^ "Retired Numbers: Junior Bridgeman". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  35. ^ "Retired Numbers: Sidney Moncrief". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original on November 8, 2012. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  36. ^ Velazquez, Matt (January 19, 2019). "At long last, Milwaukee Bucks will retire Marques Johnson's No. 8 on March 24". Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Retrieved January 22, 2019.
  37. ^ "Retired Numbers: Jon McGlocklin". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  38. ^ "Retired Numbers: Bob Lanier". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original on April 28, 2009. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  39. ^ "Retired Numbers: Brian Winters". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  40. ^ "Retired Numbers: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  41. ^ Robbins, Liz (May 21, 2000). "Pro Basketball; Wolves' Sealy, Former Star for St. John's, Dies in Car Crash". The New York Times. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  42. ^ Miller, Randy (January 11, 2016). "Sixers to retire Dolph Schayes' No. 4, but Nerlens Noel can wear it". NJ Advance Media.
  43. ^ Shapiro, Michael. "Joel Embiid Honors Kobe Bryant, Wears No. 24 as 76ers Host Warriors". Sports Illustrated. ABG-SI LLC. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  44. ^ Cotton, Anthony (November 17, 1991). "32 NO MERE NUMBER TO CONTROVERSIAL BARKLEY". The Washington Post. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  45. ^ a b c d "PHOENIX SUNS TO INDUCT SHAWN MARION AND AMAR'E STOUDEMIRE INTO RING OF HONOR". Phoenix Suns. August 9, 2023. Retrieved August 9, 2023.
  46. ^ "Bruce Bowen allows LaMarcus Aldridge to wear retired No. 12 jersey with San Antonio Spurs". July 9, 2015. Retrieved July 9, 2015.
  47. ^ "Manu Ginobili Jersey Retirement Night". NBA.com. Retrieved October 30, 2018.
  48. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Adam (August 24, 2010). "The Next Retired Jersey". Utah Jazz 360. Archived from the original on February 5, 2013. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  49. ^ "Adrian Dantley's Jersey Retired". KSL.com. April 11, 2007. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  50. ^ "Utah Jazz honor late owner Larry H. Miller". KSL.com. August 14, 2010. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  51. ^ "No. 12 to reach Utah rafters Nov. 22". ESPN/Associated Press. September 21, 2004. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  52. ^ "Jazz Retired Malone's No. 32". ksl.com. March 23, 2006. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  53. ^ "Lakers retired numbers"
  54. ^ "Bill Russell's No. 6 jersey to be retired throughout NBA". NBA.com. August 11, 2022. Retrieved March 14, 2024.
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