The Most Popular Jersey Number in Basketball: Revealing the Fan-Favorite Choice

Voting rules: Choose the number you think is the most popular!

Jun 16, 2023 10:18 (Updated on Dec 5, 2023 08:19)

Welcome to StrawPoll, the ultimate destination for avid basketball fans and enthusiasts! We've got an exciting new ranking awaiting your vote: "What is the most popular jersey number in basketball?" With countless legends and rising stars donning various jersey numbers, we want to know which one stands out as the fan-favorite. From iconic numbers that have graced the jerseys of all-time greats to those that represent promising talent, your opinion matters in determining the ultimate winner. So, join the thousands of fans who've already cast their votes, and make your voice heard. Don't see your favorite number? No problem! Suggest a missing option and watch the rankings evolve. Dive into this spirited contest and let's discover together which jersey number reigns supreme in the captivating world of basketball!

What Is the Most Popular Jersey Number in Basketball?

1

102
votes
23

This number is famously associated with Michael Jordan, considered by many as the greatest basketball player of all time. Many young players have chosen to wear this number as a tribute to Jordan's legacy.
Description

The number 23 is considered one of the most popular and frequently chosen numbers in lottery games worldwide. It has garnered a reputation for bringing luck and success due to various superstitions and cultural beliefs associated with it.

Frequent Appearance: The number 23 appears regularly as a player's selection in lottery games.

Numerological Significance: In numerology, the number 23 is often associated with creativity, intuition, and manifestation of desires.

Pop Culture References: The number 23 has been featured in popular films and literature, becoming a symbol of mystery and intrigue.

Sports Significance: In various sports, the number 23 has been famously worn by iconic athletes, adding to its popularity.

Historical Significance: Significant events throughout history have involved the number 23, leading to its perceived importance.
2

25
votes
24

This number is often associated with Kobe Bryant, another basketball legend who wore this number for most of his career. Following his tragic death in 2020, many players have chosen to wear this number as a tribute to Bryant's legacy.
Description

The number 24 is a highly significant jersey number in basketball, associated with the legendary player Kobe Bryant. It represents excellence, competitiveness, and a relentless drive to succeed.

Player: Kobe Bryant

Position: Guard/Forward

Teams: Los Angeles Lakers

NBA Championships: 5

NBA MVP Awards: 1
3

22
votes
11

This number is often worn by point guards, who are typically the playmakers on the court. It is also a popular number for players who are quick and agile, as it is seen as a "light" number.
Description

The number 11 is considered to be one of the most popular lottery numbers worldwide. It holds a special significance for many people due to its repeated and symmetrical nature.

Numerology: In numerology, 11 is often associated with intuition, spiritual awakening, and higher consciousness.

Astrology: In astrology, 11 is linked with the star sign Aquarius, known for its progressive and innovative energy.

Gematria: In Jewish mysticism, the number 11 represents divine inspiration and is associated with the Hebrew letter kaf.

Historical Significance: In ancient Rome, the number 11 carried significance as it symbolized transgression and excess.

Superstitions: Many people believe that seeing the number 11 frequently brings good luck and positive energy.
4

8
votes
3

This number is often worn by shooting guards, who are usually the team's main scorers. It is also a popular number for players who are confident and aggressive, as it is seen as a "bold" number.
Description

The number 3 is one of the most popular lottery numbers chosen by players across the globe. It is often considered a lucky number and holds significant cultural and historical significance. In numerology, the number 3 represents creativity, self-expression, and communication. It is also associated with optimism, enthusiasm, and good fortune.

Numerology Symbolism: Represents creativity and self-expression

Cultural Significance: Often regarded as a lucky number

Historical Importance: Has been significant in various ancient civilizations

Numerical Properties: Third positive integer, divisible by 1 and 3

Fibonacci Sequence: Part of the sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, ...)
5

17
votes
33

This number is often associated with Larry Bird, another basketball legend who wore this number for most of his career. It is also a popular number for players who are versatile and can play multiple positions.
Description

The number 33 is one of the most popular Bonus Balls used in the National Lottery. It is an additional number drawn alongside the main set of numbers to provide players with an extra chance to win a prize.

Number: 33

Usage: As a Bonus Ball in the National Lottery

Frequency: Drawn in various lottery games

Range: 1-59 (typical range for National Lottery games)

Importance: Considered significant due to its popularity
6

6
votes
32

This number is often associated with Magic Johnson, another basketball legend who wore this number for most of his career. It is also a popular number for players who are versatile and can play multiple positions.
Description

The number 32 is a popular basketball jersey number that has been worn by numerous iconic players in NBA history.

Player Associations: The number 32 is associated with basketball legends such as Magic Johnson, Karl Malone, and Shaquille O'Neal.

Championships: Players wearing the number 32 have won a combined 11 NBA championships.

All-Star Selections: Jersey number 32 has been worn by players who have collectively made over 30 appearances in the NBA All-Star Game.

Scoring Accomplishments: Players wearing number 32 have achieved scoring milestones such as 30,000 career points and multiple scoring titles.

Rebounding Prowess: Number 32 has been associated with dominant rebounders, including players with multiple rebounding championships.
7

9
votes
6

This number is often associated with Julius Erving, another basketball legend who wore this number for most of his career. It is also a popular number for players who are athletic and have a flair for the dramatic.
Description

The number 6 is considered a perfect number in mathematics. It is the smallest number that is equal to the sum of its divisors, excluding itself. It has been studied for centuries and holds a special significance in number theory.

Divisors: 1, 2, 3

Sum of Divisors: 1 + 2 + 3 = 6

Aliquot Sum: 6 - 1 - 2 - 3 = 0

Type: Perfect number

Positive Integer: Yes
8

12
votes
34

This number is often associated with Shaquille O'Neal, another basketball legend who wore this number for most of his career. It is also a popular number for players who are physically dominant and can overpower their opponents.
Description

The jersey number 34 holds special significance in basketball, often associated with Hall of Famer Charles Barkley. It has become one of the most iconic numbers in the sport due to its association with Barkley's dominant playing style and larger-than-life personality.

Player: Charles Barkley

Team: Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Houston Rockets

Position: Power forward

NBA Championships: None

NBA MVP Awards: 1 (1993)
9

5
votes
21

This number is often worn by players who are young and eager to prove themselves. It is also a popular number for players who are confident and have a "swagger" on the court.
Description

The jersey number 21 is a popular choice for basketball players, often associated with skilled and versatile players. It has been worn by numerous notable athletes in the sport.

Famous athletes associated with #21: Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, Michael Jordan, Dominique Wilkins, Joel Embiid

Position: Historically worn by forwards (both power and small forwards), but also worn by guards and centers

Versatility: Often chosen by all-around players who excel in multiple aspects of the game

Scoring ability: Many players with jersey number 21 are known for their scoring prowess

Defensive skills: Several players associated with the number 21 are renowned for their defensive abilities
10

6
votes
12

This number is often worn by backup players, who are typically not as well-known as the starters. It is also a popular number for players who are humble and willing to work hard to earn their place on the team.
Description

The number 12 is an even number that is widely recognized and used in various contexts. It has significance in mathematics, timekeeping, measurements, and cultural references.

Divisibility: 12 is divisible by 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.

Factors: 12 has factors of 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12 itself.

Mathematical Operations: 12 is often used as a base for counting, calculations, and mathematical concepts.

Timekeeping: In the 12-hour clock system, 12 represents both midnight and noon, dividing the day into two equal halves.

Measurement: Inches are divided into 12 inches per foot, and a foot is commonly used as a measurement unit.

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Discussion

Ranking factors for popular jersey number

Iconic moments and achievements

Some jersey numbers become popular because of the memorable moments or achievements of the players wearing them. For example, if a player wearing a particular number hits a game-winning shot in a crucial playoff game or breaks a long-standing record, it can increase the popularity of that number.
Cultural significance

Some numbers have cultural or symbolic significance that can influence their popularity. For example, the number "23" is considered iconic in basketball due to Michael Jordan's association with it, while other numbers like "13" or "7" may hold significance in different cultures or belief systems.
Team success and history

The popularity of a jersey number can also be influenced by the history and success of the teams that have featured players wearing it. If a team has a long history of winning championships or having star players don the number, it can increase its appeal among fans.
Marketability and merchandise sales

A popular jersey number can also be influenced by its marketability and the associated merchandise sales. If a number is worn by a popular player or is easily recognizable by fans, it is more likely to sell well in the form of jerseys, t-shirts, and other memorabilia.
Trends and fads

Sometimes, the popularity of a jersey number can be influenced by trends or fads in popular culture or sports. For example, if a player gains sudden media attention or becomes an overnight sensation, their jersey number may see a temporary spike in popularity.
Retired or honored jersey numbers

Some jersey numbers are retired by teams in honor of exceptional players. These numbers are usually associated with a high level of prestige and respect, which can contribute to their popularity.
Personal preference and style

Lastly, the popularity of a jersey number can be influenced by personal preference and style. Some numbers may be more aesthetically pleasing or easier to remember, which can impact their popularity among fans.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular jersey number in basketball. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or number is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1144 views
212 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each number once every 24 hours. The rank of each number is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular jersey number in basketball

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, and it's no secret that players take pride in the number on the back of their jersey. But have you ever wondered which number is the most popular among basketball players? Over the years, several numbers have become synonymous with the sport, including the iconic number 23 worn by Michael Jordan. However, there are many other numbers that have gained popularity among players, and the debate over which number is the best continues to rage on. In this article, we'll explore the most popular jersey numbers in basketball and what makes them so special to players and fans alike.

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