What Numbers are Banned in the National Basketball Association: Banned Jersey Numbers in NBA
Many players consider their jersey number to be as important as any other aspect of the game. However, once a player enters the NBA, that number may not be available. If it's been retired, the rookie is often out of luck. If a teammate has the number, they could ask and even potentially buy the number from that player.
NBA players are superstitious, so they often take their number very seriously. Others prefer to change their number either to increase jersey sales or if they are coming off a down year.
Here is a quick look at how jersey numbers worked, which are banned, and how players can go about changing them
Banned Jersey Numbers NBA
No player has ever been allowed to wear the number 69 on their jersey because it has never been used before. The infamous Dennis Rodman was determined to push the limits when he signed with the Dallas Mavericks later in his career, choosing 69 for his jersey number. This is one of the minor offenses that Dennis Rodman accomplished throughout his illustrious career.
Fans did not like it, and without much debate, Rodman decided to carry jersey number 70 (69+1). By many, only jersey number 69, was considered banned from the NBA.
Using Former Player's Numbers
For instance, if someone wears a jersey with the number 23, 35, or 45 of Michael Jordan without being authorized to do so, that player might be banned or face some penalties.
When addressing the National Basketball Association's list of prohibited jersey numbers, there are a few instances in which a player is prevented from choosing a number.
First, your team eliminates your jersey number in recognition of your achievements.
For example, you won't be able to wear Kobe Bryant's legendary number 24 if you compete for the Chicago Bulls. This generalization does have certain limitations. Only the retiree may approve if a player wants to wear a former jersey number.
A second condition in which a player cannot utilize a certain number is when that number is currently being used by another player actively participating in the game.
The number 30 is my personal favorite jersey number. Because Steph Curry holds that number, I cannot get my eyes on it.
As discussed above, the numerals 23, 24, and 45 have been adopted by some of the NBA's most prominent players throughout the league's history.
The National Basketball Association commemorates them and those who resemble them by never again authorizing a player to participate in a tournament while using their jersey number. They could be banned if they use the above numbers.
Respect for Retired Players
If the player uses the number 24 in remembrance of a former player and obtains permission from both the NBA and the former player, then the use of the number might be considered legitimate. However, if permission is not obtained, the player will be subject to severe consequences, and this number will be considered banned.
Anyhow, the players will not be banned. Still, once a player's number has been retired, it is not available to any other individual on the team under any conditions unless that player's honoring specifically grants their consent.
Similarly, multiple teams have removed the number 12 as a sign of respect for the significance of the "12th man," often recognized as the supporter.
If you look at the NHL, no player has been allowed to use the number 0 since 1996.
But there has always been a number on NBA basketball jerseys. Just as in baseball, you can pick any number from 1 to 99; also, 0 to 5 have typically been employed in basketball leagues throughout all levels.
Three Digit Jersey Numbers
There is a ban on using numerals with three digits, such as 999. It is against the rules of the National Basketball Association for players to wear jerseys with numbers that are in the triple digits.
The number that may be shown on a player's jersey is limited to a maximum of 2. While players in the NBA are permitted to wear the number 00 on their jerseys, the number 000 is prohibited. Choose any number from 00 to 69, except 69, because this symbolizes sexual connotations.
In the event that any player disobeys the regulation that states they must not wear this 69 number, there is a possibility that he may be subjected to some grave consequences.
The decision of which jersey number to wear is one that each individual NBA player must make.
You Might Also Like to Read:
Discover the Unusual: Check out These Unconventional NBA Jersey Numbers
How NBA Players Got Their Jersey Numbers
NBA Uniform Number Rules: Basketball Jersey Number Rules
Final Thoughts
In concluding remarks, it is stated that the only jersey number that is banned is 69. However, players must get NBA clearance before changing the number on their jerseys.
Although it is very rare for NBA players to ask for new jersey numbers, the league must provide its approval in the event someone does.
For instance, the National Basketball Association (NBA) has a policy restricting players from requesting new jersey numbers.
Kobe Bryant was one of the NBA players that put in a request with his team to have his number changed.