Spurs’ Keldon Johnson Switches Jersey Number, Clearing Way for Chris Paul to Don No. 3 in San Antonio

San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson has decided to make a change for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season by switching his jersey number from No. 3 to No. 0. Johnson, who has worn the No. 3 jersey for the past five years of his NBA career, is making way for the new addition to the team, Chris Paul, who will now wear No. 3. Paul, also known as CP3, recently joined the Spurs and has consistently sported the No. 3 jersey throughout his illustrious career, spanning multiple teams.

It is common in the NBA for players to switch jersey numbers, especially when a veteran like Chris Paul joins a team. While Johnson has proven himself in the league, he recognizes the stature of Paul and the significance of the No. 3 jersey to him. Speculation arises whether there was any form of compensation or gesture from Paul to Johnson in exchange for the number change, given the sentimental value attached to jersey numbers in professional sports.

Johnson’s decision to change his jersey number is just one of several notable number switches happening across the league this summer. Another prominent player making a jersey number change is Russell Westbrook, who will be transitioning from his well-known No. 0 to No. 4 upon joining the Denver Nuggets. Westbrook explained that he wanted to mark this new chapter in his career with a change in number, especially since the No. 0 jersey was already taken by Christian Braun, a key player for the Nuggets.

In addition to Westbrook, Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon will also be sporting a new number, switching from No. 50 to No. 32. This change is a tribute to Gordon’s late brother, Drew Gordon, who tragically passed away in a car accident earlier this year. Drew had worn the No. 32 jersey during his time at the University of New Mexico and throughout his professional basketball career overseas.

Johnson took to Instagram to announce his jersey number change to No. 0, sharing a photo of himself in the new Spurs jersey. His teammates, including Victor Wembanyama, Devin Vassell, and Jeremy Sochan, showed their support for Johnson’s decision through comments on the post. The NBA offseason continues to bring about changes and transitions for players as they prepare for the upcoming season, each alteration holding its own significance and meaning for the individuals involved.