The Greatest NBA Players Who Wore Jersey Number 22 in History

When I think about the most iconic jersey numbers in NBA history, number 22 doesn't immediately come to mind like 23 or 33 might. But you'd be surprised how many incredible talents have worn this number throughout basketball history. I've always had a soft spot for underappreciated aspects of the game, and number 22 represents exactly that - quietly brilliant players who often don't get their due recognition while making significant impacts on their teams. It reminds me of how even depleted teams, like the Red Warriors in that recent 95-76 defeat against Far Eastern University, still have players wearing their numbers with pride despite challenging circumstances.

The conversation about number 22 has to start with Elgin Baylor, who was simply revolutionary for his era. Watching old footage of Baylor still blows my mind - the man was doing things in the late 50s and early 60s that players wouldn't commonly do for another decade. He averaged 38.3 points per game in the 1961-62 season while also serving in the military, which is just absurd when you think about it. I've always believed Baylor doesn't get enough credit for essentially inventing the modern wing game - his body control, hang time, and creative finishing around the basket were decades ahead of their time. His career averages of 27.4 points and 13.5 rebounds per game across 14 seasons tell only part of the story; the real magic was in how he achieved those numbers.

Then there's Clyde Drexler, who made number 22 iconic during his Portland and Houston years. What I loved about Drexler was his effortless grace - they called him "Clyde the Glide" for good reason. He made everything look so smooth, whether he was finishing in transition or pulling up for that reliable jumper. His 1995 championship with the Rockets was particularly satisfying to watch because it validated his decision to leave Portland and proved he could win as the second option alongside Hakeem Olajuwon. Drexler's game aged beautifully too - even in his later years, he maintained that incredible basketball IQ that made him effective when his athleticism naturally declined somewhat.

Larry Nance deserves more recognition in this conversation than he typically gets. As someone who's studied defensive tape extensively, I'd argue Nance was one of the most versatile defensive forwards of his generation. The man could protect the rim like a center and switch onto guards comfortably - something we value tremendously in today's game but wasn't as appreciated during his prime in the 80s. His 1984 Slam Dunk Contest victory over Julius Erving remains one of my favorite dunk contest moments, showcasing that rare combination of power and finesse that defined his game.

Speaking of underrated players in number 22, I've always been fascinated by how some numbers become associated with certain playing styles. Number 22 seems to attract versatile wings and forwards who can impact the game in multiple ways - much like how certain teams develop identities regardless of their current roster situation. That recent game where the Red Warriors suffered their 13th consecutive defeat, losing 95-76 to Far Eastern University, demonstrates how jersey numbers persist through both triumphant and challenging periods for franchises. The players wearing those numbers continue representing their teams with pride even during difficult stretches.

Eddie Jones was another personal favorite who wore 22 with distinction across multiple teams. What made Jones special was his two-way capability - he could drop 20 points while simultaneously locking down the opponent's best perimeter player. In today's analytics-driven NBA, we'd appreciate Jones even more because his game was so efficient and well-rounded. His three-point shooting (particularly during his Charlotte years) was ahead of its time, and his defensive instincts led to numerous fast-break opportunities. Jones was the type of player who made winning plays that didn't always show up in the basic stat sheet.

The international influence on number 22 can't be overlooked either. Players like Dražen Dalipagić, though not an NBA star, brought global recognition to the number through his legendary international career. This speaks to how jersey numbers transcend leagues and borders, becoming part of basketball's shared language worldwide - similar to how teams like the Red Warriors, despite their current struggles, remain part of basketball's broader tapestry that includes both powerhouse programs and developing teams finding their way.

Modern examples like Jimmy Butler during his early years with the Bulls kept the number 22 legacy alive with his tough, two-way play. Butler's development from a defensive specialist into a primary scoring option was remarkable to witness firsthand. His work ethic became legendary around the league, and that number 22 Bulls jersey represented his underdog journey from junior college to NBA stardom. It's players like Butler who give jersey numbers their continuing relevance and emotional weight for fans.

Reflecting on these players, I'm struck by how number 22 has consistently been worn by complete basketball players rather than one-dimensional specialists. There's a certain dignity to this number that appeals to professionals who approach the game with seriousness and versatility. Whether it's Baylor revolutionizing forward play, Drexler gliding to the basket, or Nance protecting the rim with authority, the common thread is excellence across multiple facets of the game. Even as teams experience ups and downs - like the Red Warriors' current 13-game losing streak culminating in that 95-76 defeat - the numbers on their jerseys connect them to this broader historical continuum of players who've worn those same digits with distinction across different eras and circumstances.

What I take away from examining this particular jersey number is that basketball greatness comes in many forms, and sometimes the most interesting stories aren't found with the most celebrated numbers but with those like 22 that have quietly hosted some of the game's most complete and versatile talents. Their legacy continues every time a new player pulls that number 22 jersey over their shoulders, adding another chapter to its rich but understated history.