Dallas Mavericks Star Anthony Davis Sparks Excitement as He Officially Retires From No. 3 and Embraces a Bold New Single-Digit Legacy.
In a move that has fans buzzing and the NBA world talking, Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis has officially announced he is retiring jersey number 3 — the number he’s worn since joining the franchise — and switching to a bold, symbolic single-digit number to mark a new era in his career and personal journey.
Effective immediately, Davis will wear No. 1 — a number he says represents “a fresh start, a new mentality, and an unwavering focus on one goal: bringing a championship to Dallas.”
“This Is About Identity and Purpose”
The news broke during a Mavericks team media availability at the team’s practice facility Thursday afternoon, where Davis, 32, unveiled the new jersey in front of cameras and a packed room of reporters. With a confident smile and renewed energy, Davis explained the meaning behind the switch.
“I’ve worn No. 3 for a long time. It carried a lot of meaning for me — my past, my grind, the battles I’ve fought to get here,” he said. “But this moment in my life, in my career, it’s different. I’m choosing No. 1 because I’m all in — one city, one team, one mission.”
He added, “I feel like I’m starting over in the best way possible. I’m not chasing the past anymore. I’m embracing what’s in front of me.”
From Veteran Presence to Face of the Franchise
Since joining the Mavericks in 2023 after stints with New Orleans and Los Angeles, Davis has been more than just a seasoned veteran — he’s become a pillar of leadership, a defensive anchor, and one of the most respected voices in the locker room. His pairing with Luka Dončić has sparked one of the most intriguing duos in the Western Conference, and their chemistry on and off the court has elevated Dallas into serious title contention.
While Davis isn’t the same rim-wrecking phenom he was in his early 20s, his evolved game, sharp basketball IQ, and relentless drive have made him an invaluable piece of the Mavericks’ puzzle.
“He’s playing some of the smartest, most efficient basketball of his career,” Head Coach Jason Kidd said. “And now, with this new number, I think we’re seeing a guy who’s fully redefined himself — physically, mentally, and emotionally.”
Fans React: “AD1” Begins
Mavericks fans were quick to embrace the change, flooding social media with tributes, memes, and creative jersey mockups. The nickname “AD1” began trending within hours, with fans praising Davis for his bold reinvention and laser-focused mindset.
“I love it,” one fan posted. “He’s not just wearing a new number — he’s setting the tone for the season. Let’s go, AD1!”
Merchandise pre-orders for the new No. 1 Anthony Davis jersey reportedly surged just hours after the announcement, with the Mavericks team store seeing a 400% spike in traffic.
Looking Ahead: One Goal, One Jersey
With the regular season approaching its final stretch and playoff intensity rising, Davis’s message is crystal clear: this isn’t just a personal rebrand — it’s a statement of intent.
“This isn’t about style,” Davis said. “It’s about substance. I’m not here to ride out the final chapters of my career quietly. I’m here to win. And I’m going to give this city everything I’ve got — in that No. 1 jersey, every single night.”
As the Mavericks gear up for the postseason, the spotlight will undoubtedly shine brighter on AD1 — and with it, the hopes of a franchise chasing greatness.