Unlock the Shocking Secret Behind This Untold Story That Everyone’s Ignoring

So here’s the million-dollar question buzzing in my mind as the Memphis Grizzlies gear up for the 2025-26 season: What’s really behind Jaren Jackson Jr.’s surprising switch from the iconic No. 13 jersey to No. 8? I mean, the man’s been a defensive titan, a two-time All-Star, and a Defensive Player of the Year — comfortable in his skin and number, right? Well, turns out, this change is far more than a mere fashion statement. It’s personal. Deeply personal. As Jackson himself puts it, the number 8 symbolizes “new beginnings” and “infinite” energy, something that resonates with his family and mindset heading into what could be a pivotal chapter for both him and the Grizzlies. But beyond the jersey, we’re witnessing a franchise recalibrating after trading sharpshooter Desmond Bane and anchoring their future around Jaren’s mammoth $240 million commitment to Memphis. Could this fresh number ignite a newfound fire in Jackson’s game — pushing Memphis into the Western Conference elite? Something tells me the story behind No. 8 might just be the secret sauce this season has been craving. Let’s dig in.

Phoenix Suns v Memphis Grizzlies — (Photo by Wes Hale/Getty Images)

2025-26 could be an important year for the Memphis Grizzlies and their acclaimed big man Jaren Jackson Jr.

The team will try to earn a stable spot toward the top of the Western Conference, and Jackson will attempt to remind everyone why he was Defensive Player of the Year a few seasons ago.

Jackson will look slightly different on the court this season because he will have a new jersey number.

He is switching from No. 13 to No. 8 and spoke about why.

“It’s super personal to my family… I’m connected with 8 in a real way. It reaches into the territory of new beginnings. It’s infinite. It’s just a good place to draw energy from,” Jackson said, via NBA Retweet.

Jaren Jackson Jr. on his decision to switch his jersey number from 13 to 8:

“It's super personal to my family… I'm connected with 8 in a real way. It reaches into the territory of new beginnings. It's infinite. It's just a good place to draw energy from”

via @RohanNadkarni pic.twitter.com/siWeezqF3W

— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) August 13, 2025

Jackson has been No. 13 for his entire career, and he isn’t giving a definitive reason why he’s making the change, but it obviously means a lot to him.

Having a personal investment in the season will be great for Jackson, and it could make him more devoted and play even better.

It’s not that he was playing poorly before.

Last season, Jackson produced 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks and earned an All-Star spot for the second time in his career.

The offseason has been substantial for Memphis, and they traded away Desmond Bane to the Orlando Magic.

That might create trouble for the team, but it helped pave the way for a big contract for Jackson.

He is now signed to a five-year, $240 million deal with the Grizzlies and is clearly a central part of their future plans.

Jackson is committed to his team, and this jersey change shows just how much he has invested.

The post Jaren Jackson Jr. Reveals Why He Changed His Jersey Number appeared first on The Cold Wire.