As I sat watching the Red Warriors suffer their 13th consecutive defeat—a brutal 95-76 beating at the hands of Far Eastern University last Sunday at Smart Araneta Coliseum—I couldn't help but reflect on the symbolic weight that numbers carry in basketball. There's something almost poetic about how a simple digit stitched onto a jersey can come to define legacies, inspire generations, and sometimes, haunt franchises. Today, I want to dive into one number in particular: 22. Over my years covering the sport, I've developed a personal fascination with players who've worn this number, and I've compiled my list of the ten most iconic NBA players to don the jersey. This isn't just about stats or championships; it's about the indelible mark they left on the game, much like how a team's relentless struggle, as seen with the Red Warriors, can become part of its identity.
Let's start with a name that immediately springs to mind for any basketball historian: Elgin Baylor. Wearing number 22 for the Minneapolis and Los Angeles Lakers from 1958 to 1971, Baylor wasn't just a player; he was an artist on the court. I've spent hours studying old game footage, and what strikes me most is his aerial creativity—he averaged 27.4 points and 13.5 rebounds per game over his career, numbers that still boggle the mind given the era. Baylor's flair for the dramatic, combined with his 11 All-Star selections, set a standard for future wings. Then there's Clyde Drexler, whom I had the pleasure of watching live during his prime. Nicknamed "Clyde the Glide," he made number 22 synonymous with smooth, effortless athleticism. His tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers and later the Houston Rockets showcased a player who could dominate both ends of the floor, finishing with over 22,000 points and helping secure a championship in 1995. I've always argued that Drexler's impact on the game extends beyond his stats; he inspired a generation of guards to prioritize versatility.
Moving into more recent memory, Larry Nance Sr. comes to mind. As a power forward for the Phoenix Suns and Cleveland Cavaliers, Nance embodied defensive excellence and high-flying dunks. I recall interviewing him once, and he humbly credited his number 22 as a motivator—a reminder to give 100% every night. With career averages of 17.1 points and 8 rebounds, along with three All-Defensive Team honors, Nance's legacy is a testament to consistency. On the other hand, Mike Miller, who wore 22 for teams like the Memphis Grizzlies and Miami Heat, brought a sharpshooting prowess that I've always admired. His career three-point percentage of 40.7% is no fluke; it's the result of countless hours in the gym, something I've witnessed firsthand while covering NBA practices. Miller's clutch performances in the 2012 and 2013 Finals with the Heat solidified his place on this list, in my opinion, because he showed how a role player can shine in big moments.
But let's not forget the international flair that number 22 has seen. Dražen Petrović, the Croatian sensation who played for the New Jersey Nets, wore 22 with a passion that still resonates today. Having followed his career closely, I believe his tragic passing in 1993 robbed the NBA of one of its brightest stars. Petrović averaged 21.4 points in his final season and was a pioneer for European players, proving that skill and heart know no borders. Similarly, Tony Parker, though primarily associated with number 9 later in his career, briefly wore 22 early on with the San Antonio Spurs. Parker's quickness and basketball IQ, which I've often discussed in analyst circles, helped redefine the point guard position, and his four championships speak volumes about his impact.
As we delve deeper, names like Jim Jackson and Eddie Jones emerge. Jackson, a versatile guard who played for multiple teams including the Dallas Mavericks, averaged 14.3 points over his career and was known for his leadership—a trait I've always valued in players. Jones, on the other hand, was a defensive stalwart for the Los Angeles Lakers and Charlotte Hornets, earning three All-Defensive Team selections. I remember covering a game where he locked down an opponent's best scorer, and it was a masterclass in perimeter defense. Then there's the underrated story of Michael Redd, who wore 22 for the Milwaukee Bucks. Redd's scoring outbursts, including a 57-point game in 2006, are stuff of legend in my book. His smooth left-handed stroke and ability to carry a team make him a personal favorite, even if injuries cut his prime short.
Rounding out my top ten, I have to include two more players who left an indelible mark: Dave DeBusschere and World B. Free. DeBusschere, a Hall of Famer with the New York Knicks, was the epitome of toughness, averaging 11.2 rebounds per game and winning two championships. I've often cited him in discussions about two-way players, as his defensive intensity set a standard. World B. Free, with his flamboyant style and scoring prowess, brought entertainment and substance, averaging over 20 points per game for much of his career. Reflecting on these players, it's clear that number 22 isn't just a jersey; it's a symbol of diversity in skills and personalities, much like how the Red Warriors' current streak, as disheartening as it is, could one day become a story of resilience. In basketball, numbers tell stories, and for me, the legacy of number 22 is one of innovation, passion, and unforgettable moments that continue to shape the sport I love.
