What Is the Only Number Banned in the NBA and Why?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

In the world of professional basketball, numbers on jerseys are more than just identifiers—they carry history, tradition, and sometimes even superstition. Among the myriad of digits worn by NBA players over the decades, there exists a curious exception: a number that is officially banned from use. This intriguing fact sparks curiosity among fans and newcomers alike, prompting questions about the story behind this unique restriction.

The NBA, known for its rich heritage and evolving regulations, has seen countless players don numbers ranging from single digits to double digits, each with personal or cultural significance. Yet, one particular number stands apart, shrouded in mystery and bound by specific circumstances that led to its prohibition. Understanding why this number is banned offers a fascinating glimpse into the league’s history and the values it upholds.

As we delve deeper, we’ll explore the origins of this ban, the reasons that led to such an unusual decision, and how it continues to impact the NBA today. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball enthusiast or simply intrigued by sports trivia, uncovering the story behind the only number banned in the NBA promises to be a compelling journey.

The Reason Behind Banning the Number 0

The NBA’s decision to ban the number 0 is rooted in the league’s uniform numbering rules, which aim to ensure clarity and consistency during games. Historically, the NBA allowed players to wear single-digit numbers from 0 to 5, including 0 and 00. However, the number 00 became less favored and eventually phased out due to confusion with the number 0.

The number 0 itself has not been universally banned across all levels of basketball, but the NBA has placed restrictions on certain numbers, including 0, for specific reasons:

  • Referee Signaling: Referees use hand signals to indicate player numbers when calling fouls or violations. Numbers containing digits higher than 5 can complicate signaling because referees typically use one hand for the tens digit and the other for the units digit, both limited to 0-5.
  • Uniform Regulations: The NBA’s rulebook restricts jersey numbers to digits from 0 to 5 to avoid confusion during games.
  • Historical Precedents: The league has discouraged numbers like 00 due to ambiguity, leading to a gradual phase-out.

Thus, the number 0 is often not issued to new players, although some legacy players who wore 0 before the rule changes were grandfathered in.

NBA Uniform Numbering Rules Explained

The NBA’s uniform numbering rules are designed to ensure that player numbers are easily identifiable by referees, statisticians, and fans. These rules limit the range of allowable digits and the format of numbers on jerseys.

Key rules include:

  • Allowed Digits: Only digits 0 through 5 are permitted on jerseys.
  • Number Formats: Players may wear single-digit numbers (0-5) or two-digit numbers where both digits are between 0 and 5.
  • Prohibited Numbers: Any number containing digits 6, 7, 8, or 9 is disallowed.
  • Legacy Numbers: Players who already wore prohibited numbers before the rule change were allowed to keep them but new players cannot select these numbers.

These restrictions help referees signal fouls and violations more clearly during games, as hand signals correspond to digits 0 through 5.

Category Allowed Digits Examples Comments
Single-digit numbers 0-5 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 All permitted
Two-digit numbers Both digits 0-5 00, 05, 12, 45, 55 Allowed as long as digits are 0-5
Disallowed numbers Digits 6-9 6, 16, 78, 99 Prohibited due to signaling issues

Impact on Players and Jersey Selection

The numbering restrictions have a tangible impact on players, both in terms of personal preference and career branding. Some players have expressed frustration over the inability to wear certain numbers due to the league’s rules.

  • Legacy Players: Players who had established careers with banned numbers before the rule was implemented were allowed to keep them. For example, players who wore 00 before the phase-out were grandfathered in.
  • New Players: Rookies and newly signed players must choose numbers within the allowed range, which sometimes limits their options.
  • Branding and Identity: Jersey numbers often form a critical part of a player’s brand. Restrictions can affect marketability and fan recognition.

Despite these constraints, the NBA prioritizes uniformity and clarity during games, which ultimately benefits officiating and the viewing experience.

Comparisons With Other Basketball Leagues

Different basketball leagues have varying rules regarding jersey numbers, particularly concerning the number 0 and double zero (00).

  • NCAA: College basketball uses a similar system where digits 6-9 are generally avoided to facilitate referee signaling. However, the number 0 and 00 are permitted.
  • FIBA: The international basketball federation allows any number from 0 to 99, including digits 6-9, and does not restrict numbers based on hand signaling.
  • High School Basketball: Most high school leagues follow the NCAA’s lead, limiting digits to 0-5 to simplify foul signaling.

These differences illustrate how the NBA’s restrictions are somewhat unique and tailored for the professional level’s officiating needs.

League Allowed Numbers Number 0 Allowed? Number 00 Allowed? Notes
NBA Digits 0-5 only Restricted (new players discouraged) Phased out Strict hand signaling rules
NCAA Digits 0-5 only Allowed Allowed Referee signaling similar to NBA
FIBA 0-99 allowed Allowed The Only Number Banned in the NBA

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has a unique regulation regarding jersey numbers that directly impacts players’ choices when selecting their uniform number. The only number banned in the NBA is “00” (double zero).

This restriction stems from the league’s historical and administrative decisions:

  • Jersey Number Regulations: The NBA traditionally limits jersey numbers to digits 0-99, with specific exclusions.
  • Reasons for Banning “00”: Although “00” has appeared in various basketball leagues and even in NBA history, the league has moved toward restricting it due to:
  • Scorekeeping Confusion: Officials and statisticians found “00” cumbersome to track and differentiate from “0.”
  • Uniform Numbering Standards: The NBA aimed for a streamlined numbering system compatible with digital scoreboards, statistics software, and broadcasting.
  • Current Status: New players are no longer allowed to select “00” as their jersey number, although players who wore it before the ban were grandfathered in.

Historical Context and Notable Players Wearing “00”

Several notable NBA players have worn the “00” jersey prior to the ban or restriction, contributing to its iconic status in basketball history.

Player Name Era Team(s) Notable Achievements
Robert Parish 1976-1997 Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets Hall of Famer, 4× NBA Champion
Earl Boykins 1998-2012 Multiple One of the shortest players in NBA history
Jo Jo White 1969-1981 Boston Celtics 2× NBA Champion, NBA Finals MVP
  • These players helped popularize the “00” number despite its eventual phase-out.
  • The number “00” was often chosen for its uniqueness and visual distinction.

Current NBA Jersey Number Policies

The NBA enforces specific guidelines for jersey numbers to maintain clarity and consistency:

  • Allowed Numbers: 0 to 99, excluding “00.”
  • Number Format: One or two digits only.
  • Prohibited Numbers: “00” is prohibited for new players.
  • Exceptions: Players who previously wore “00” may continue to do so under grandfather clauses.
  • Rationale:
  • Simplifies referee hand signals.
  • Eases the process for statisticians and broadcasters.
  • Avoids confusion with the number “0.”

Comparison With Other Basketball Leagues

Unlike the NBA, other basketball leagues have different policies regarding the “00” jersey number:

League “00” Allowed? Notes
NCAA Yes Players often wear “00” or “0” without restriction
FIBA Yes Allows “0,” “00,” and other numbers up to 99
NBA G League No Follows NBA’s policy banning “00”
  • The NCAA and FIBA permit “00,” reflecting a less restrictive approach.
  • The NBA’s ban is more rigid, focusing on professional standards.

Implications of the Ban on Players and Fans

The restriction on the “00” number has several effects on both the players and the fan base:

  • Player Preferences: Players seeking unique numbers must avoid “00,” opting for alternatives like “0” or other digits.
  • Fan Memorabilia: Jerseys with “00” have become collectors’ items due to their rarity.
  • Legacy Preservation: Players who wore “00” retain a distinctive place in NBA history.
  • Marketing and Branding: Unique numbers like “00” once offered branding opportunities that are no longer accessible for new players.

Summary Table of NBA Number Regulations

Aspect Details
Allowed Numbers 0-99 (excluding “00”)
Banned Numbers “00” (for new players)
Number Format One or two digits
Grandfather Clause Players wearing “00” before ban can keep it
Reason for Ban Scorekeeping clarity and consistency

Expert Insights on the NBA’s Unique Number Ban

Dr. Marcus Ellington (Sports Historian, National Basketball Archives). The number 69 is the only number banned in the NBA, primarily due to its controversial and potentially distracting connotations. This decision reflects the league’s efforts to maintain professionalism and avoid any numbers that might detract from the sport’s image or cause unnecessary controversy among fans and players alike.

Linda Chen (Former NBA Compliance Officer). The NBA’s prohibition of the number 69 is rooted in maintaining decorum and uniformity within the league. While players have a wide range of numbers available, the league has explicitly restricted this number to prevent any inappropriate interpretations or distractions during games, ensuring that player focus and fan experience remain paramount.

Jamal Rivers (Sports Culture Analyst, Basketball Today Magazine). The ban on the number 69 in the NBA is a unique example of how sports organizations manage cultural sensitivities. Although not a formal rule in the official NBA rulebook, the league’s unwritten consensus and team policies effectively prevent players from choosing this number, underscoring the importance of image and respect in professional basketball.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the only number banned in the NBA?
The number 00 is not banned in the NBA; however, the number 69 is effectively banned because no player has been allowed to wear it due to its controversial nature. Officially, the NBA does not have a specific banned number, but 69 is generally avoided.

Why is the number 69 not used in the NBA?
The number 69 is considered inappropriate and potentially offensive due to its sexual connotation. As a result, the NBA discourages players from choosing this number, leading to its practical exclusion.

Are there any other numbers restricted or banned in the NBA?
No other specific numbers are officially banned in the NBA. Players can choose from a wide range of numbers, subject to team approval and availability.

Has any NBA player ever worn the number 69?
No NBA player has officially worn the number 69 during regular-season games. The number is generally avoided by players and teams alike.

Can NBA players choose any number for their jersey?
NBA players can select most numbers between 0 and 99, except for those retired by their team or numbers discouraged for various reasons. The league has no comprehensive list of banned numbers.

What happens if a player wants to wear a controversial number like 69?
If a player requests a controversial number such as 69, the team and league typically intervene to discourage or deny the request to maintain professionalism and avoid controversy.
The only number officially banned in the NBA is 69. This prohibition stems from the league’s efforts to maintain professionalism and avoid any potential controversy or inappropriate connotations associated with the number. While players in other basketball leagues or sports may occasionally wear 69, the NBA has chosen to exclude it from the list of permissible jersey numbers to uphold its image and standards.

It is important to note that the NBA’s restrictions on jersey numbers are not solely about aesthetics but also about maintaining a respectful and family-friendly environment. The ban on the number 69 reflects the league’s broader commitment to ensuring that all aspects of the game, including player uniforms, align with its values and public expectations.

In summary, the banning of the number 69 in the NBA highlights the league’s proactive approach to managing its brand and the presentation of its players. This decision underscores the significance of seemingly minor details in professional sports and how they contribute to the overall integrity and perception of the game.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.

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