Houston Rockets rookie Jack McVeigh is about to make NBA history by sporting the number 58 jersey this season.
Uncharted Territory: Numbers Never Seen on the Court
Alright, hoop heads, let’s talk numbers. With Jack McVeigh snagging 58, we’re left with a few digits that have never graced an NBA jersey: 64, 69, 74, 75, 78, 79, 80, 82, and 87. Now, don’t get any ideas about 69โit’s off-limits in the NBA for, well, obvious reasons. But hey, the NFL doesn’t shy away from it. Just ask Xavier Williams or Chase Winovich, who rocked it on the field.
Jack McVeigh (@theJackMcVeigh) will wear No. 58 for the #Rockets. Number never worn in franchise AND NBA history. #NBA
โ Etienne Catalan (@EtienneCatalan)
Bill Russell’s Legacy: The Number 6 Lockdown
Speaking of numbers, the NBA has put a lock on the legendary number 6, thanks to Bill Russell’s iconic career. After his passing, the league retired the number in 2022. Players already sporting it got a pass, but no new players can claim it. During the 2022-23 season, every player donned a special patch to honor Russell. I think it’s a fitting tribute to a true legend.
From Down Under to the Big League: Jack McVeigh’s Journey
Let’s dive into McVeigh’s journey. This Aussie baller went undrafted in 2019 after his time at Nebraska, but he’s been making waves ever since. He inked a two-way deal with the Rockets in July, bringing his 6’8″ frame to Houston. Before that, he was tearing it up in the NBL with the Tasmania JackJumpers, even snagging the grand final MVP title. Talk about a Cinderella story, right?
McVeigh’s path to the NBA is like that underdog movie we all loveโhe’s gone from playing for the Gold Coast Rollers to leading the JackJumpers to an NBL championship. It’s like heโs been on a mission to prove everyone wrong, and now he’s got his shot in the NBA. Who doesn’t love a good underdog tale?
As the new season tips off, here’s a thought: Could Jack McVeigh become the breakout star the Rockets need? Or will he just be another name on the roster? Only time will tell, but I’m betting on the former. What do you think?
