PHILADELPHIA, PA — Newly signed Philadelphia Sixers forward Paul George revealed on a recent episode of Podcast P with Paul George why he chose his new jersey number and continues paying homage to the late great Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant.
While revealing his new jersey number, being that the numbers 13 and 24 are officially retired in Philadelphia, George explained to his co-hosts, actor Jackie Long and Dallas Rutherford, why the number 8 was his final choice.
“I had to do it. I’m in Philly… my idol Bean, Kobe Bryant is my way of idolizing him,” George said. “Something that meant something outside of 24 and 13, it was only right (and) it’s different.“
As they all celebrated and shared a laugh, George added, “I like how the eight looks on me.“
The decision for his new jersey number was not made hastily. The All-Star forward took his time to search for a meaningful reason and number that best represents him. After going through the list of numbers that he previously wore in high school, college or some significant dates in his life, he decided on the number 8 that had a deeper meaning for him.
“Eight is a special number,” he said.
Growing up in the Palmdale section of Southern California, watching Bryant accomplish NBA championships, scoring titles, and set records in a Los Angeles Lakers uniform ignited and inspired a young George to pursue his dreams of becoming an NBA player.
After opting out of his contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, George declared himself a free agent and was ready to speak with several teams. Once the discussions with the Clippers broke down, George and his representatives met with Daryl Morey and the Sixers; George signed a four-year $212 million deal.
“We are thrilled to welcome Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers. Paul is an elite wing on both ends of the floor who fits perfectly with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey,” Morey said in a statement on Saturday. “His dedication, hard work, and impressive career to date have him well on his way to the Hall of Fame. We are excited about the impact he will have as we strive to bring another championship to Philadelphia.”
Last season, George averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game for the Clippers. He also played in 74 games, including the playoffs. He was responsible for guiding the Clippers to their first-ever appearance in the Western Conference Finals against the Phoenix Suns without Kawhi Leonard, who was injured during that stretch.
As George turned the page from his moments in his hometown, the nine-time All-Star is seriously looking to compete for a championship in Philadelphia.
“I’m so excited to join this storied franchise with such a passionate fan base! I can’t wait to be a part of such a talented team and get to work to bring a championship to Philadelphia!” George said in a statement.
Pairing George with the talents of Tyrese Maxey and Embiid gives a powerful reason on why the Sixers should not be taken lightly this coming season in the Eastern Conference if the trio can remain healthy.
