My Grandmother, Michael Jordan, Psalm 23 are the reasons I chose to wear the number
Phoenix Suns star, Cameron Johnson, shared the inspiring reason he chose to wear the number 23 as an expression of his faith.
The American basketball Star said, “My grandma, she’s a prayer warrior. She taught my dad to use Psalm 23 as a prayer every time he goes to a competition or an important meeting. He instilled that down to me.“ So Psalm 23 is something I have always said before every game, and I have been saying it during the National Anthems, since high school.
Another reason I wear the number 23 is because I was also a huge Michael Jordan fan growing up… My middle name is Jordan, and I watched Michael Jordan’s games growing up. So, I had to go back to the number.”
In basketball, the number 23 shirt is the most well-known jersey in the game. Worn by the two best players of all time, Michael Jordan and Lebron James, anyone who wears the number 23 will immediately be compared to the two great players.
So when the Phoenix Suns’ Cameron Johnson picked the number 23, everyone immediately started wondering, why? But The Christian NBA Star of North Carolina had a different reason for choosing 23; his faith in God.
In football, many great players have also elected to wear the number 23 on their shirts. David Beckham (Real Madrid) and (LA Galaxy), English football pundit, Jamie Carragher wore 23 during his tenure at Liverpool.
Norwegian national team player, Erling Haaland is recognised for his pace, athleticism and finishing ability. He is also known for his shirt Number 23.
Russian footballer, Andrei Arshavin, wore 23 when he played as a midfielder for Arsenal.
Manchester United’s left-back, Luke Shaw, is a strong admirer of the number 23 shirt.
Cameron Johnson says that he not only wears the number 23, he also recites it constantly.
When preparing for a game or significant moment, Johnson recites the Bible passage as a way to connect with God and his grandmother.
He said, “My grandma is a prayer warrior.”
Psalm 23 (NIV) reads:
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6 Surely, your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.