Aaron Gordon forward — Denver Nuggets This time around, he’s found that purpose again this NBA playoffs. To some, Gordon’s 50-win campaign is an impressive accomplishment in itself. Having recently lost his brother Drew to gang violence, he’s hellbent on getting his family out of these dangerous neighborhoods while keeping his head in the game of basketball. He has emerged as the steady hand, the dependable mentor for his nephews. In particular, he supports his youngest nephew, Brody as he navigates the pressures and challenges of professional basketball.
Gordon was chosen fourth overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic. He’s always been unique for his selflessness, both on and off the court. His story made national headlines this season when he decided to change his jersey number from 50 to 32. He completed it in memory of his late brother, too. His commitment to family shines through in everything he does, on the court and off.
During the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend, instead of returning to his native Bay Area, Gordon chose to remain in Denver to spend quality time with his nephews. This intention to be a strong male role model for them as they grow up makes him a true pillar of the family. This is even more true since Drew’s unexpected death.
Of course, Gordon’s journey through grief has influenced how he looks at the game. He reflected on how watching Drew go undrafted and work tirelessly for a brief NBA career taught him valuable lessons about resilience. These revelations have strengthened his mental toughness in what could be a make-or-break season.
Beyond his drive on the court, Gordon has intentionally pushed to be as actively present in his nephews’ lives as possible. Logan speaks almost daily with Jayden, who now lives with his mother in Albuquerque, New Mexico. To demonstrate his commitment, he even purchased tickets for Jayden to join him at the 2025 NCAA Men’s Final Four in San Antonio. Each gesture speaks volumes about his dedication to building strong relationships within his family.
“Listen, I will do anything for those boys. That’s it. There is nothing I wouldn’t do for them,” – Aaron Gordon
Angela, Drew’s partner, expressed her gratitude for Gordon’s unwavering support during their family’s darkest times. She described him as “the best uncle, friend and person that has showed up for us.” Her words go to the heart of why Gordon’s work is so essential in their lives.
“To the world, he is Aaron Gordon. But to us, he is the best uncle, friend and person that has showed up for us during the darkest times of our lives,” – Angela
This comes through especially with Gordon’s relationship with his nephews. This bond goes beyond blood, keeping his heart strong and his spirit resilient. He credits them for helping him navigate the emotional toll of losing Drew and the pressures of a demanding sports career.
“What has been getting me through is the game of basketball and my love for my brother’s children,” – Aaron
His relationship with Brody is particularly significant. Gordon does his best to be a positive influence in Brody’s life. He’s focused on making sure that Brody has a positive, strong male role model as he’s growing up. He knows how important he is, and he doesn’t take that role lightly. He is motivated to be a positive role model for his nephews.
“All my nephews, but [in particular] my youngest nephew, Brody. I want him to grow up and see a strong, resilient male figure in his life…” – Aaron
As Gordon continues to excel on the court, he remains acutely aware of the personal challenges that come with fame and success. His close-knit bonds with his extended family members is what has definitely anchored and supported him through all of these challenges. He’s realistic about how tragedy can change a family’s trajectory. In his eyes, they’re more cohesive than ever as a unit.
“To have these things that really rock your world and reshape the structure of your family, that only you know what it feels like and what you’re going through, I think we really rallied around each other,” – Elise
To be honest, Elise, a third member of the family, told us that having their tight-knit inner circle and clan around was everything. The profound support they all give to one another has been critical in advancing their work.
“Honestly, we have tightened our circle even more just knowing that we got us. That is what it’s come down to: being there for each other,” – Elise
On the court, Gordon plays like an absolute wizard. It’s his loyalty to his brother’s memory and desire to raise his family that keeps him focused. So as he guides the Nuggets toward the playoffs, it is with Drew’s legacy on his shoulders and in his heart.
“It can always be worse. I know that I carry [my brother] with me. I’m holding it down and being a rock for the rest of the family,” – Aaron
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