List of NBA retired numbers

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 April 2025, 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
 * 
Number to be retired in the future
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 F 1982–1994 Currently team vice president and television color analyst. [1]
23 Lou Hudson F 1966–1977 The team was in St. Louis in his first two seasons (1966–1968). [1]
44 Pete Maravich G 1970–1974 One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (Atlanta, New Orleans, Utah)
55 Dikembe Mutombo C 1996–2001
59 Kasim Reed 2010–2018 As mayor of Atlanta. Number represents his status as the 59th mayor of the city.
Ted Turner 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 1946–1964 As team founder–owner. [3]
2 Red Auerbach 1950–2006 As head coach (19501966) and executive (1950–2006). [3]
3 Dennis Johnson G 1983–1990 Served as assistant coach from 1993 to 1997. [3]
5 Kevin Garnett F 2007–2013
6 Bill Russell 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 (19661969).
Number retired league-wide in 2022.[4]
[3]
10 Jo Jo White G 1969–1979 [3]
14 Bob Cousy G 1950–1963 Later served as team ambassador and color analyst. [3]
15 Tom Heinsohn F 1956–1965 Also served as head coach (19691978); as broadcaster (1980–2020). [3]
16 Satch Sanders F 1960–1973 Also served as head coach (1978). [3]
17 John Havlicek F 1962–1978 [3]
18 Dave Cowens C 1970–1980 Also served as head coach (1978–1979). [3]
19 Don Nelson F 1965–1976 [3]
21 Bill Sharman G 1951–1961 [3]
22 Ed Macauley C 1950–1956 [3]
23 Frank Ramsey F 1954–1964 Did not play in the 1955–56 season due to military service. [3]
24 Sam Jones G 1957–1969 [3]
25 K. C. Jones G 1958–1967 Also served as head coach (19831988). [3]
31 Cedric Maxwell F 1977–1985 Also served as broadcaster (2001–present); briefly wore no. 30 in 1977–78. [3]
32 Kevin McHale F 1980–1993 [3]
33 Larry Bird F 1979–1992 [3]
34 Paul Pierce F 1998–2013
35 Reggie Lewis G 1987–1993 Died of a heart attack while still playing for the team; number retired posthumously. [3]
LOSCY[a] Jim Loscutoff F 1955–1964 Wore no. 18 but decided to keep it active; number ultimately retired for Dave Cowens. [3]
🎤 Johnny Most 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 G 2001–2008 The team was then the New Jersey Nets.
Also served as head coach (2013–2014).
[6]
15 Vince Carter G/F 2004–2009 The team was then the New Jersey Nets. [6]
23 John Williamson 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 G 1969–1976 The team was then on Long Island as the New York Nets. [6]
32 Julius Erving 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 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. The number was formerly retired by the New Orleans Hornets/Pelicans from 2002 to 2014, after which it was returned and re-retired in Charlotte following the revived Hornets' (originally Bobcats) acquisition of franchise records and history of the original team from 1988 to 2002.
1*

Derrick Rose

Chicago Bulls G 2008–2016 To be retired on January 24, 2026.
4 Jerry Sloan G 1966–1976 Also served as head coach (19791982). [7]
10 Bob Love F 1968–1976 Bulls Director of Community Affairs since 1993 [7]
23 Michael Jordan 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 F 1987–1998
2003–2004
[8]
Phil Jackson[b] 1989–1998 As head coach (19891998). [9]
Jerry Krause[b] 1985–2003 As general manager (1985–2003). [9]
Johnny Kerr 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 C 1996–2010 Did not play in 1996–97 and 1999–2000 seasons due to injury. [10]
22 Larry Nance F 1988–1994 Briefly wore no. 6 in 1988.
Number unretired for his son Larry Nance Jr. from 2018 to 2021, and since 2025.
[10]
25 Mark Price G 1986–1995 [10]
34 Austin Carr G 1971–1980 [10]
42 Nate Thurmond C 1975–1977 [10]
43 Brad Daugherty C 1986–1996 Did not play in 1994–95 and 1995–96 seasons due to injury. [10]
🎤 Joe Tait 1970–1981
1983–2011
As broadcaster. [10]
Nick Gilbert Late son of Cavs owner Dan Gilbert [10]
12 Derek Harper Dallas Mavericks G 1983–1994
1996–1997
15 Brad Davis G 1980–1992 [11]
22 Rolando Blackman G 1981–1992 [11]
24* Mark Aguirre F 1981–1989 To be retired January 29, 2026. [12]
41 Dirk Nowitzki F/C 1998–2019
2 Alex English Denver Nuggets F 1980–1990 [13]
12 Fat Lever G 1984–1990
33 David Thompson F 1975–1982 [13]
40 Byron Beck C 1967–1977 [13]
44 Dan Issel 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) [13]
55 Dikembe Mutombo C 1991–1996 [14]
432 Doug Moe 1980–1990 As head coach; the number represents his 432 victories coaching the Nuggets. [13]
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 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. [15]
3 Ben Wallace 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 G 1985–1999 Also served as team president (2000–2014). [15]
10 Dennis Rodman 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. [15][16]
11 Isiah Thomas G 1981–1994 Wore no. 42 for one playoff game in 1985 (due to his jersey stolen). [15]
15 Vinnie Johnson G 1981–1991 Served as a color analyst on Pistons radio broadcasts (1990–2001) [15]
16 Bob Lanier C 1970–1980 [15]
21 Dave Bing G 1966–1975 Served as the 74th mayor of Detroit (2009–2013) [15]
32 Richard Hamilton G/F 2002–2011
40 Bill Laimbeer C 1982–1993 [15]
William Davidson 1974–2009 As team owner. [15]
Jack McCloskey 1979–1992 As general manager. [15]
9 Andre Iguodala Golden State Warriors F 2013–2019
2021–2023
Number retired on February 23, 2025. [17]
13 Wilt Chamberlain 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)
[18]
14 Tom Meschery F 1961–1967 Team was in Philadelphia (1961–1962) and San Francisco (1962–1967). [18]
16 Al Attles G 1960–1971 Also served as head coach (1969–1983). [18]
17 Chris Mullin SG/SF 1985–1997
2000–2001
Also served as Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations (2004–2009). [18]
24 Rick Barry F 1965–1967
1972–1978
[18]
42 Nate Thurmond C 1963–1974 Team bore the San Francisco name 1963–1971 before adopting the Golden State name starting with the 1971–72 season. [18]
11 Yao Ming Houston Rockets C 2002–2011 Did not play in 2009–10 season due to injury. [19]
22 Clyde Drexler G 1995–1998 Also served as broadcaster (2005–2020). [19]
23 Calvin Murphy G 1970–1983 Team was in San Diego (1970–1971).
Also served as broadcaster (1985–2004).
[19]
24 Moses Malone C 1976–1982 Wore no. 21 during the 1976–77 season. [19]
34 Hakeem Olajuwon C 1984–2001 [19]
44 Elvin Hayes F 1968–1972
1981–1984
Wore no. 11 from 1968 to 1971; team was in San Diego during that span. [20]
45 Rudy Tomjanovich F 1970–1981 Team was in San Diego (1970–1971).
Also served as head coach (1991–2003).
[19]
CD Carroll Dawson[c] 1980–2007 As assistant coach (1980–1995) and general manager (1995–2007). [21]
30 George McGinnis Indiana Pacers F 1971–1975
1980–1982
31 Reggie Miller G 1987–2005
34 Mel Daniels C 1967–1974 Also served as head coach (1988).
35 Roger Brown F 1967–1974 Coming from ABA Pacers. He did not play a match in the NBA.
529 Bobby Leonard 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 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 C 2008–2014 First pair of siblings, with brother Marc Gasol to have jerseys retired by NBA teams.
21 Michael Cooper G 1978–1990 [22]
22 Elgin Baylor F 1958–1971 The team was in Minneapolis in his first two seasons (1958–1960).
24 Kobe Bryant G 2006–2016 Only player to have two numbers retired by the same team.
25 Gail Goodrich 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 G 1979–1991
1996
Also served as head coach in 1994, and President of Basketball Operations (2017–2019).
33 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar C 1975–1989
34 Shaquille O'Neal C 1996–2004 One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (L.A. Lakers, Miami and Orlando). [23]
42 James Worthy F 1982–1994
44 Jerry West G 1960–1974 Also served as head coach (1976–1979) and general manager (1981–2002).
52 Jamaal Wilkes 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 C 1947–1954
1956
Also served as head coach (1957–1958); the team was in Minneapolis throughout his tenure in both roles. [24]
🎤 Chick Hearn 1961–2002 As broadcaster.
9 Tony Allen Memphis Grizzlies G/F 2010–2017 [25]
33 Marc Gasol F 2008–2019 First pair of siblings, with brother Pau Gasol to have jerseys retired by NBA teams.
50 Zach Randolph F 2009–2017
🎤 Don Poier 1995–2005 As broadcaster
1 Chris Bosh Miami Heat F/C 2010–2017 Did not play in 2016–17 season due to injury. [26]
3 Dwyane Wade G 2003–2016
2018–2019
[27]
10 Tim Hardaway G 1996–2001 [28]
13 Dan Marino 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).
[29]
23 Michael Jordan G Never played for the franchise; number retired for "contributions to basketball". [30][31]
32 Shaquille O'Neal C 2004–2008 One of three players to have his jersey retired by three different teams (L.A. Lakers, Miami and Orlando). [32]
33 Alonzo Mourning C 1995–2003
2005–2008
Did not play in 2002–03 season due to injury. Since 2009, Vice President of Player Programs and Development [33]
40 Udonis Haslem F/C 2003–2023 Named Vice President of Basketball Development shortly after retiring from play.[34] [35]
1 Oscar Robertson Milwaukee Bucks G 1970–1974 Retired October 18, 1974 [36]
2 Junior Bridgeman F 1975–1984
1986–1987
[37]
4 Sidney Moncrief G 1979–1989 [38]
8 Marques Johnson F 1977–1984 Television color analyst since 2015. [39]
10 Bob Dandridge F 1969–1977
1981
14 Jon McGlocklin G 1968–1976 Also served as broadcaster (19852018). [40]
16 Bob Lanier C 1980–1984 [41]
32 Brian Winters G 1975–1983 [42]
33 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar C 1969–1975 Served under the name of Lew Alcindor for two seasons before becoming Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. [43]
2 Malik Sealy Minnesota Timberwolves F 1997–2000 Died in a car crash while playing for the team.[44] His jersey was retired posthumously.
Flip Flip Saunders 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 G 1965–1973
15 Earl Monroe G 1971–1980 Wore no. 33 for a few games in the 1971–72 season.
15 Dick McGuire G 1949–1957 Also served as head coach (1965–1968) and scouting director.
19 Willis Reed C 1964–1974 Also served as head coach (1977–1978).
22 Dave DeBusschere F 1968–1974 Also served as general manager (1982–1986).
24 Bill Bradley F 1967–1977 From 1979 to 1997, US Senator (D) from New Jersey
33 Patrick Ewing C 1985–2000
613 Red Holzman 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 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 G 1996–2006
2009–2010
4 Dolph Schayes 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.
[45]
6 Julius Erving F 1976–1987
10 Maurice Cheeks G 1978–1989 Also served as head coach (2005–2008).
13 Wilt Chamberlain 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 G 1958–1973 During his first five seasons (1958–1963), the team was known as the Syracuse Nationals.
24 Bobby Jones F 1978–1986 On January 28, 2020, jersey was temporarily, with Jones' permission, issued to Joel Embiid as a tribute to Kobe Bryant.[46]
32 Billy Cunningham F 1965–1972
1974–1975
Also served as head coach (1977–1985); briefly un-retired for Charles Barkley in the 1991–92 season.[47]
34 Charles Barkley F 1984–1992 Also wore #32 during the 1991–92 season as a tribute to Magic Johnson (see Billy Cunningham).
🎤 Dave Zinkoff 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 G 1977–1988
7 Kevin Johnson 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 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.[48]
13 Steve Nash 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.[48]
24 Tom Chambers 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.[48]
31 Shawn Marion F 1999–2008
32

Amar'e Stoudemire

F 2002–2010 Wore no. 1 from 2006 to 2010.
33[d] Alvan Adams C 1975–1988 Number unretired for Grant Hill from 2007 to 2013.
34 Charles Barkley 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.[48]
42 Connie Hawkins F 1968–1974
44 Paul Westphal G 1975–1980
1983–1984
Also served as head coach (1992–1996).

Jerry Colangelo

1968–2005 As owner, executive, and head coach (1970; 1972–73).
Cotton Fitzsimmons 1970–1972
1988–1992
1996
As head coach; inducted in the Suns' Ring of Honor posthumously.
John MacLeod 1973–1987 As head coach. Also served as assistant head coach in the 1999–2000 NBA season.
Joe Proski 1968–2000 As athletic trainer.
🎤 Al McCoy 1972–2023 As broadcaster
1 Larry Weinberg Portland Trail Blazers 1970–1988 As team founder and owner; number still available (most notably worn by Rod Strickland, Derek Anderson, Jarrett Jack, Evan Turner and Anfernee Simons).
13 Dave Twardzik G 1976–1981
14 Lionel Hollins G 1975–1981
15 Larry Steele G 1971–1981
20 Maurice Lucas F 1976–1981
1987–1988
22 Clyde Drexler G 1983–1995
30 Terry Porter G 1985–1995
30 Bob Gross F 1975–1982
32 Bill Walton C 1974–1979 Did not play in 1978–79 season due to injury.
36 Lloyd Neal C 1972–1979
45 Geoff Petrie G 1970–1976
77 Jack Ramsay 1976–1986 As head coach; the number represents the 1977 NBA Championship he won while coaching the Blazers.
🎤 Bill Schonely 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 G 1991–1998
4 Chris Webber F 1998–2005
6 Sixth man
11 Bob Davies 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 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 G 1960–1970 The team was then known as the Cincinnati Royals.
16 Peja Stojakovic F 1999–2006 Director of player personnel and development (2015), assistant General Manager (2018)
21 Vlade Divac C 1999–2004 Vice president and general manager of basketball operations (2015–2020)
27 Jack Twyman 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 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 G 1991
1992–1993
1994–2001
Wore no. 15 during his first stint with the Spurs (1991).
9 Tony Parker G 2001–2018
12 Bruce Bowen F 2001–2009 Unretired for LaMarcus Aldridge from 2015 to 2021. [49]
13 James Silas G 1973–1981
20 Manu Ginobili G 2002–2018 [50]
21 Tim Duncan F/C 1997–2016 Assistant coach from 2019 to 2020.
32 Sean Elliott F 1989–1993
1994–2001
Currently serves as a Spurs' TV color analyst (2004–present)
44 George Gervin G 1974–1985
50 David Robinson C 1989–2003
1,390 Gregg Popovich 1996–2025 As head coach; the number represents his 1390 victories coaching the Spurs.
1[e] Gus Williams Seattle SuperSonics G 1976–1985
10[e] Nate McMillan G 1985–1998 Played for the Seattle SuperSonics and served as their head coach (2000–2005).
19[e] Lenny Wilkens 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 F 1971–1975
32[e] Fred Brown G 1971–1984
43[e] Jack Sikma C 1977–1986 Also served as assistant coach (2003–2007).
🎤[e] Bob Blackburn 1967–1992 Announcer for the Seattle SuperSonics.
15 Vince Carter Toronto Raptors G/F 1998–2004 His number was retired on November 2, 2024, during halftime when the team played the Sacramento Kings [6]
1 Frank Layden Utah Jazz 1981–1988 As head coach; also served as team president (1988–1998). [51]
4 Adrian Dantley F 1979–1986 [51][52]
7 Pete Maravich 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)
[51]
9 Larry Miller 1985–2009 As owner. [51][53]
12 John Stockton G 1984–2003 [51][54]
14 Jeff Hornacek G 1994–2000 Also served as assistant coach (2011–2013). [51]
32 Karl Malone F 1985–2003 [51][55]
35 Darrell Griffith G 1980–1991 [51]
53 Mark Eaton C 1982–1993 [51]
1,223 Jerry Sloan 1988–2011 As head coach; the number represents his 1223 victories coaching the Jazz. [51]
🎤 Hot Rod Hundley 1974–2009 As broadcaster. [51]
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 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 F 1963–1972 The team was then known as the Baltimore Bullets.
41 Wes Unseld 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 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.[56] 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
2 Norm Van Lier Chicago Bulls G 1971–1978
5 John Paxson G 1985–1994
7 Toni Kukoč F 1993–2000
24 Bill Cartwright C 1988–1994
25 Chet Walker F 1969–1975
53 Artis Gilmore C 1976–1982; 1987
54 Horace Grant F 1987–1994
91 Dennis Rodman F 1995–1998
Dick Klein 1967-1972 As owner
Tex Winter 1985-1999 As Assistant Coach
Johnny Bach 1988-1994, 2003-2004 As Assistant Coach
Neil Funk 1991-2020 As broadcaster
1, 11 Terrell Brandon Cleveland Cavaliers PG 1991–1997
18 John "Hot Rod" Williams F/C 1986–1995
20, 4 Campy Russell F 1974–1980, 1984 Broadcaster. Cavalier's Director of Alumni Relations
21 World B. Free G 1982–1986
22 Jim Chones C 1974–1979
30 Mike Mitchell SF 1978–1981
32 John Johnson F 1970–1973
Wayne Embry 1986–1999 As General manager; first African-American sports team general manager
Bill Fitch 1970–1979 Original general manager and coach
Lenny Wilkens 1986–1993 As head Coach
Nick Mileti 1970–1980 Original owner of the team
Gordon Gund 1983–2005 As owner
Chuck Broski 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] F 1949–1959 Team was then in Minneapolis.
22 Slater Martin[f] G 1949–1956 Team was then in Minneapolis.
34 Clyde Lovellette[f] F/C 1953–1957 Team was then in Minneapolis.
John Kundla[f] 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 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.[57] 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

[edit]

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

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  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.[21]
  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

[edit]
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. ^ "Mavs to retire Mark Aguirre's jersey in January". NBA.com. NBA Media Ventures, LLC. Retrieved October 28, 2025.
  13. ^ a b c d e "Denver Nuggets". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 14, 2010. Retrieved May 14, 2010.
  14. ^ "Nuggets to Retire Dikembe Mutombo's #55 Jersey". NBA.com. September 26, 2016. Retrieved September 29, 2016.
  15. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "Detroit Pistons". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 14, 2010. Retrieved May 14, 2010.
  16. ^ "Pistons to retire Dennis Rodman jersey". ESPN.com. February 11, 2011. Retrieved February 12, 2011.
  17. ^ "Warriors to Retire Andre Iguodala's #9 Jersey on February 23". www.nba.com. January 28, 2025. Retrieved January 28, 2025.
  18. ^ a b c d e f "Golden State Warriors". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 15, 2010. Retrieved May 15, 2010.
  19. ^ a b c d e f "Houston Rockets". CBS Sports. CBS Interactive. May 15, 2010. Retrieved May 15, 2010.
  20. ^ "Rockets to Retire No. 44 in Honor of Elvin Hayes". NBA.com. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved September 1, 2022.
  21. ^ 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.
  22. ^ "Los Angeles Lakers Announce 2024-25 Season Schedule Presented by Delta Air Lines". www.nba.com. Retrieved August 23, 2024.
  23. ^ Pincus, Eric (April 2, 2013). "Lakers retire Shaquille O'Neal's jersey". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
  24. ^ "Lakers retire George Mikan's No. 99 jersey in pregame ceremony". NBA.com. October 30, 2022. Retrieved October 31, 2022.
  25. ^ Bailey, Clay (March 15, 2025). "Grizzlies retire "Grindfather" Tony Allen's No. 9 jersey". apnews.com. Retrieved March 16, 2025.
  26. ^ "HEAT To Retire Chris Bosh's No. 1 Jersey". NBA.com. February 4, 2019. Retrieved February 24, 2019.
  27. ^ 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.
  28. ^ "Hardaway's Heat jersey retired". ESPN. October 29, 2009. Retrieved May 17, 2010.
  29. ^ "Dan Marino's jersey is retired by the Miami Heat". Fansided. March 16, 2015. Retrieved May 23, 2017.
  30. ^ "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.
  31. ^ "Miami Franchise retires Michael Jordan's No. 23". The Tuscaloosa News. April 10, 2003. Retrieved May 17, 2010.
  32. ^ "Miami Heat to retire Shaquille O'Neal's No. 32 jersey". February 9, 2016.
  33. ^ "Heat retire Mourning's No. 33". ESPN. March 31, 2009. Retrieved May 17, 2010.
  34. ^ "Udonis Haslem Joins Heat Front Office" (Press release). Miami Heat. November 7, 2023. Retrieved January 20, 2024.
  35. ^ 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.
  36. ^ "Retired Numbers: Oscar Robertson". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  37. ^ "Retired Numbers: Junior Bridgeman". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  38. ^ "Retired Numbers: Sidney Moncrief". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original on November 8, 2012. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  39. ^ 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.
  40. ^ "Retired Numbers: Jon McGlocklin". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  41. ^ "Retired Numbers: Bob Lanier". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Archived from the original on April 28, 2009. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  42. ^ "Retired Numbers: Brian Winters". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  43. ^ "Retired Numbers: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar". NBA.com/Bucks. Turner Sports Interactive, Inc. Retrieved May 18, 2010.
  44. ^ 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.
  45. ^ Miller, Randy (January 11, 2016). "Sixers to retire Dolph Schayes' No. 4, but Nerlens Noel can wear it". NJ Advance Media.
  46. ^ Shapiro, Michael. "Joel Embiid Honors Kobe Bryant, Wears No. 24 as 76ers Host Warriors". Sports Illustrated. ABG-SI LLC. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  47. ^ Cotton, Anthony (November 17, 1991). "32 NO MERE NUMBER TO CONTROVERSIAL BARKLEY". The Washington Post. Retrieved March 30, 2020.
  48. ^ 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.
  49. ^ "Bruce Bowen allows LaMarcus Aldridge to wear retired No. 12 jersey with San Antonio Spurs". July 9, 2015. Retrieved July 9, 2015.
  50. ^ "Manu Ginobili Jersey Retirement Night". NBA.com. Retrieved October 30, 2018.
  51. ^ 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.
  52. ^ "Adrian Dantley's Jersey Retired". KSL.com. April 11, 2007. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  53. ^ "Utah Jazz honor late owner Larry H. Miller". KSL.com. August 14, 2010. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  54. ^ "No. 12 to reach Utah rafters Nov. 22". ESPN/Associated Press. September 21, 2004. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  55. ^ "Jazz Retired Malone's No. 32". ksl.com. March 23, 2006. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  56. ^ "Lakers retired numbers"
  57. ^ "Bill Russell's No. 6 jersey to be retired throughout NBA". NBA.com. August 11, 2022. Retrieved March 14, 2024.