What number is banned in the NBA?

The NBA is not in the habit of banning specific numbers, although there have been calls for such moves. However, there is one number that has "banned" league-wide, and this is "No. 6".

While some sources speculate about the reason behind the ban as rooted in signaling rules, the National Basketball Association has confirmed that the move was enacted out of respect for Bill Russell.

In 2022, the league announced that it was retiring the number in an unprecedented move. The number is still worn by some players, but it will be phased out at the end of their careers.

Why is Russell getting the "No. 6" treatment?

The NBA decided to retire Russell’s number 40 years after his original team, the Boston Celtics, did so in 1972. The move is, as explained, a way to pay respects to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer who was celebrated both on and off the court.

Among other things, Russell is a civil rights activist celebrated, and the NBA wanted to celebrate his illustrious career and life. By retiring "No. 6," the league felt that it had done fairly by the player.

On the occasion of the number’s retirement, NBPA Executive Director Tamika Tremaglio said:

"This is a momentous honor reserved for one of the greatest champions to ever play the game. Bill’s actions on and off the court throughout the course of his life helped to shape generations of players for the better, and for that, we are forever grateful. We are proud to continue the celebration of his life and legacy alongside the league."

Has the NBA retired other numbers?

No, the NBA has not officially retired any other numbers. In fact, the league has seen no need to do so. The only exception is Russell's No. 6 out of a respect for one of the defining figures in modern basketball. This has not stopped fans from speculating that the NBA may have silently ousted other numbers, such as the explicitly suggestive No. 69.

What is up with people talking about banning "No. 69"?

The number No. 69 has not been banned by the NBA, but the league has not assigned it to any player. While Dennis Rodman made a formal request to be given the number, the league has declined.

Wrapping up: NBA's banning of Number 6

In short, the NBA’s decision to retire Bill Russell’s No. 6 stands as a unique tribute to one of the game’s most influential figures, both on and off the court. While speculation about other numbers persists, the league has made it clear that no other number has received the same honor, adding to Russell's legacy as a player and human being.

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