Paul George’s move to Boston came with a familiar twist. The Celtics recently posted photos of George arriving at the team’s practice facility with his family, holding up his new No. 13 jersey.
The number carries deep meaning for the 16-year veteran. George wore No. 24 early in his Indiana Pacers career. However, after suffering a devastating leg injury, he switched to No. 13, a number he kept through stops in Indiana, Oklahoma City and Los Angeles with the Clippers.
Paul George Celtics Jersey Marks a Full-Circle Moment
When George joined the Philadelphia 76ers, No. 13 wasn’t available since the franchise retired it for Wilt Chamberlain. Consequently, he chose No. 8 instead, honoring the late Kobe Bryant. That chapter didn’t last long, though.
Boston acquired George this offseason as part of the blockbuster trade sending Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia. Once the move became official, George quickly locked in his jersey number for the Celtics. He’s ditching the No. 8 from his Sixers days and reclaiming No. 13, the digit forever tied to his “PG-13” identity.
Boston fans can expect George to instantly become the most talented player ever to wear No. 13 for the franchise. Twenty-six players have worn the number before him, making George the 27th. Delonte West currently holds the record for the longest tenure wearing it. Meanwhile, Ron Harper Jr., who currently sports No. 13 on Boston’s roster, will need to switch numbers to clear the way for George.
History Hasn’t Been Kind to No. 13 in Boston
Despite its significance elsewhere, No. 13 hasn’t exactly brought good fortune to the Celtics over the years. Still, George now has the chance to change that narrative and turn the number into something special in green and white.
Given his track record of postseason heroics, including his standout performance against Boston just months ago, George arrives with plenty of motivation to make PG-13 mean something new in Boston.
