Top-Tier Transfers Embrace Duke Basketball Legacy Through Jersey Numbers
As the Duke Blue Devils prepare for the 2024–25 men’s basketball season, the program welcomes a significant influx of talent, including six highly touted freshmen and four experienced transfers. Beyond their on-court skills, these newcomers are making thoughtful choices in jersey numbers, paying homage to Duke’s storied basketball history and signaling their respect for the program’s legacy.
Embracing Duke’s Heritage: The Significance of Jersey Numbers
In college basketball, jersey numbers often carry deep personal and historical significance. At Duke, a program rich with tradition and success, certain numbers are indelibly linked to legendary players. The selection of jersey numbers by incoming players offers a glimpse into their appreciation for the program’s past and their aspirations for the future.
Sion James Honors Nate James with No. 14
Tulane transfer Sion James has chosen to wear No. 14, a number famously donned by former Duke standout Nate James. Nate James contributed to Duke’s 2001 National Championship as a player and later served as an assistant coach during the 2010 and 2015 title runs. While there is no familial relation, Sion’s choice reflects a desire to align himself with the program’s championship pedigree and leadership legacy.
Maliq Brown Breaks New Ground with No. 6
Syracuse transfer Maliq Brown will wear No. 6, marking the first time this number has been used in Duke’s program history. This is possible due to the NCAA’s recent rule change allowing numbers 0–99, lifting previous restrictions that prohibited digits 6–9. Brown’s selection signifies a new era of flexibility and personalization in jersey numbers, while also setting a precedent for future Blue Devils.
Cameron Sheffield Adopts No. 13
Rice transfer Cameron Sheffield has chosen No. 13, a number less commonly selected due to superstitions but one that has been part of Duke’s history. By embracing this number, Sheffield demonstrates confidence and a willingness to carve out his own path within the program.
Mason Gillis Selects No. 18
Former Purdue forward Mason Gillis will wear No. 18 at Duke, a number not previously associated with the program. His choice reflects the broader trend of players personalizing their jersey numbers in the wake of relaxed NCAA regulations.
Freshmen Forge New Traditions with Unique Numbers
The incoming freshman class is also making notable choices:
- Cooper Flagg will wear No. 2, honoring Donovan Kurt, a family friend who passed away from brain cancer.
- Isaiah Evans has selected No. 3, a number previously worn by standout guards like Grayson Allen.
- Kon Knueppel and Darren Harris will wear No. 7 and No. 8, respectively, embracing numbers newly available under NCAA rules.
- Khaman Maluach will don No. 9, further exemplifying the trend of utilizing previously restricted numbers.
- Patrick Ngongba II has chosen No. 21, aligning with traditional numbering while establishing his own identity.
Navigating Retired Numbers and Seeking Permission
Duke has retired 13 jersey numbers to honor its basketball legends, including Christian Laettner’s No. 32 and Danny Ferry’s No. 35. In some cases, players have sought permission to wear these numbers:
- Marvin Bagley III received approval from Danny Ferry to wear the retired No. 35 during his time at Duke.
- Mark Mitchell was granted permission by Art Heyman’s family to wear the retired No. 25, demonstrating the program’s respect for its history and the importance of honoring past players.
