Anthony Davis has decided to don the No. 23 jersey once again after his high-profile trade to the Washington Wizards. The move comes as Davis reunites with Trae Young, as the Wizards aim to rebuild their roster and re-enter playoff contention for the first time since the 2020-21 season.
Davis’s choice of jersey number holds historical significance within the franchise, marking a symbolic link to one of basketball’s greatest players.
The Legacy of No. 23 in Washington’s Basketball History
NBA insider Marc Stein confirmed that Davis will wear the number 23 for the Wizards, a number famously associated with Michael Jordan’s two-year stint with the team from 2001 to 2003. Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the game, left a lasting legacy in the nation‘s capital during his final NBA seasons.
The Wizards say Anthony Davis will wear No. 23 … last worn in the nation’s capital by a certain Michael Jordan in 2002-03,
Marc Stein reported.
Anthony Davis’s History with Jersey Numbers and Personal Connection
During his previous team stops, Anthony Davis wore different numbers depending on the roster context. He sported No. 3 with both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks, but previously wore No. 23 while playing for the New Orleans Pelicans. His switch from 23 to 3 earlier in his career was influenced by LeBron James, who wore 23 in Los Angeles.
Speaking on a talk show, Davis explained his emotional reasoning behind choosing jersey numbers:
I just chose No. 3. I went on ‘2K,’ the video game, so I’m literally in my living room, on the video game, going to myself, ‘Edit Player,’ and I’m going through all the numbers,
he told Jimmy Kimmel.
It was my elementary school number, the first number I ever played basketball in. I saw No. 3, and I was like, this takes me back to elementary school, where it all started.
Current Challenges and Future Outlook for Davis and the Wizards
This season has been plagued by injuries for Davis, who was sidelined early in January with a hand injury. His teammate Trae Young has also been out with MCL and quadriceps injuries since late December. Despite limited appearances, Davis posted solid averages of 20.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, 3.3 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game during his 29 matches with the Mavericks following the trade that sent Luka Dončić to Dallas.
The Wizards are currently enduring a difficult campaign, holding a 14-36 record and sitting 13th in the Eastern Conference standings. The team’s management appears intent on allowing health and recovery time for Davis and Young as they look ahead to building momentum for the 2026-27 season.
Significance of Davis Wearing No. 23 Again
By selecting the number famously worn by Michael Jordan during his Wizards days, Anthony Davis embraces a symbol of excellence and leadership. Fans and analysts alike hope this change brings positive momentum for Davis personally and for the Wizards organization as a whole. With a focus on recovery and growth, the franchise seeks to harness the star power of Davis and Young toward regaining playoff relevance in the near future.
The Wizards say Anthony Davis will wear No. 23 … last worn in the nation’s capital by a certain Michael Jordan in 2002-03. https://t.co/sBdN6EHOM8
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 6, 2026
