Anthony Davis, a native of Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, is preparing to embark on a new chapter with the Washington Wizards by adopting the legendary No. 23 jersey once worn by Michael Jordan. This significant move comes as Davis seeks to revitalize his career following a challenging period with the Dallas Mavericks, embracing the legacy tied to his idol and hometown legend while stepping into the nation’s capital.
Anthony Davis Embraces the Iconic 23 Jersey in Washington
Multiple news sources confirm that Anthony Davis will don the No. 23 jersey for the Wizards, a number famously worn by Michael Jordan during his time with the franchise. This moment marks the first time since Jordan’s final season with the Wizards in 2003 that the number 23 will appear on a Wizards player. Davis has a long-standing connection to this number, having worn it throughout his high school career and during his tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he achieved numerous accolades.
At Perspectives Charter School, Davis earned all-conference honors for three straight years, leading the school to retire his #23 jersey in 2013. During his time with the Pelicans, he continued the tradition, joining Jordan as one of only two players in the past five decades to score 90 points across their team’s first two games. For Davis, growing up on Chicago’s South Side, Michael Jordan was more than a basketball icon—he was a personal idol whose legacy he now aims to honor.
A Personal Connection to Michael Jordan’s Legacy
Anthony Davis has shared a story about the first time he encountered Michael Jordan during the 2011 Jordan Brand Classic while representing Kentucky. Despite earning co-MVP honors with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 blocks in that game, Davis admits he was too awestruck to engage in conversation with Jordan.
“Man, this is Michael Jordan. It was my first time seeing him and talking to him,”
Davis recalled.
“He was like, ‘Any questions?’ I had so many questions, I just couldn’t build myself up to say anything to Jordan. I didn’t ask anything. I was in awe.”
– Anthony Davis, NBA Player
From standing as a child in front of Jordan’s statue outside Chicago’s United Center to now officially wearing the same number for the Wizards, Davis’s journey reflects a blend of reverence and ambition. His move to Washington represents a fresh opportunity, despite the turmoil from recent years.
Reflection on a Tough Stint with the Dallas Mavericks
Anthony Davis’s recent tenure with the Dallas Mavericks was marred by injuries and misfortune, limiting his time on the court and overshadowing the potential partnership with Kyrie Irving. The duo only played one game together and shared just about 25 minutes on the floor before injuries sidelined them—Davis with multiple ailments and Irving suffering an ACL tear. Jason Kidd, the Mavericks’ head coach, expressed regret over never witnessing the fully healthy iteration of the team designed around Davis’s defensive prowess.
“It was unfortunate, his health. We never got to see everyone together. Not just AD but Kyrie and with Coop. Unfortunately, we didn’t have that opportunity. But AD is an incredible basketball player and a great human being. We wish him the best in D.C.,”
Kidd said. – Jason Kidd, Former Mavericks Head Coach
Welcoming Support from Wizards Teammates
In Washington, Davis finds encouragement from new teammates like Trae Young, who understands the emotional complexity of being traded while dealing with injury. Young shared a nostalgic photo of himself and Davis from their younger days, anticipating their future in the NBA together.
Celebrating the new chapter, Young wrote, “Inevitable! Welcome to DC!” signaling optimism about their shared journey with the Wizards.
The Significance of Wearing No. 23 in Washington
The number 23 holds immense symbolism in basketball, primarily due to Michael Jordan’s immense impact both in Chicago and during his tenure with the Wizards. For Anthony Davis, carrying this number at the Wizards is more than just a numeral; it is a mantle of history, expectation, and personal fulfillment. The number remained untouched in Washington for 23 years before Davis’s arrival, elevating the weight of his new role.
As Davis prepares to wear the famous jersey once again, it is clear that the path ahead carries both challenge and opportunity. His arrival in Washington not only refreshes his career but also strengthens the connection between the Wizards franchise and one of basketball’s greatest legacies.
Anthony Davis will wear No. 23 for the Wizards, per @CMillsPXP on the MNMT broadcast. The last player to wear 23 in D.C. was Michael Jordan in 2003 (23 years ago).
— Chase Hughes (@chasedcsports) February 6, 2026
