Jason Terry Number at a Glance
Jason Terry is widely known for wearing number 31. This became his signature in the NBA after he chose it early in his college career with Arizona and carried it forward into the pros. The number is tied to his identity as a sharp-shooting guard and clutch performer. Below are verified details about the number he wore, the teams that defined his career, and key milestones that shaped his reputation as a dependable scorer and leader.
Jersey Number and NBA Teams
Across his NBA career, Jason Terry consistently wore number 31. He first gained national attention with Arizona wearing 31, then kept it with the Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, Boston Celtics, and Milwaukee Bucks. Number 31 is common in basketball, but for Terry it represented reliability, perimeter scoring, and leadership. Below is a concise overview of his NBA journey with the teams where he wore 31.
| Team | NBA Tenure | Notable Context Wearing 31 |
|---|---|---|
| Dallas Mavericks | 1999–2012 | Primary tenure; iconic playoff performances with 31 |
| Atlanta Hawks | 2012–2013 | Continued use of 31 during regular season and playoffs |
| Houston Rockets | 2013 | Short stint; wore 31 in playoff run |
| Boston Celtics | 2013–2014 | Provided veteran leadership with 31 as the jersey identity |
| Milwaukee Bucks | 2014–2016 | Finished his NBA career wearing 31 |
College and Early Number History
At the University of Arizona, Jason Terry wore number 31, a choice that helped define his early identity as a scorer. Later, in the pros, keeping 31 created continuity for him and for fans. The number also connects to other notable players across leagues, though Terry’s usage is distinct for its consistency. This stability contributed to his recognizable brand as a guard who thrived in big moments.
Key Stats and Achievements with Number 31
Wearing 31, Jason Terry compiled a durable NBA career marked by scoring consistency and playoff experience. Highlights include making a significant impact with the Mavericks during deep playoff runs and contributing key points in important matchups. His commitment to the number over multiple teams reinforced his identity as a steady perimeter threat.
- Known as one of the better clutch shooters in the league during his peak years.
- Spanned more than a decade with the Mavericks, forming the core of a competitive team.
- Earned respect for high basketball IQ, off-ball movement, and dependable shooting.
Legacy and Recognition of Jason Terry Number 31
While not retired universally, number 31 remains closely associated with Jason Terry in Dallas and among fans who followed his career. His long tenure with the Mavericks elevated the number’s visibility. For newer fans, the number serves as a quick reference to his tenure and playing style. The consistency of wearing 31 across organizations underscores his established habits and professional identity.
Comparison with Other Notable NBA Number 31 Wearers
Number 31 has appeared on many NBA jerseys over the years, but Jason Terry’s usage stands out for its continuity and playoff relevance. The table below contrasts Terry’s career length with the number against a few other notable players who wore 31, highlighting his distinct profile.
| Player | Primary Team(s) | NBA Tenure with 31 | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jason Terry | Mavericks, Hawks, Rockets, Celtics, Bucks | 1999–2016 | Longest continuous use; playoff contributor |
| Derek Fisher | Lakers, Thunder, Knicks | 1996–2014 | Championships focus; different role |
| Tracy McGrady | Raptors, Magic, Hawks | 1997–2013 | Scoring star; varied success with 31 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What number did Jason Terry wear? He wore number 31 for the majority of his NBA career.
- Did Jason Terry change his number often? No, he kept number 31 across teams, which helped maintain a consistent identity.
- Is number 31 retired for Jason Terry? No, his number is not retired league-wide or team-wide, but it is closely associated with his time in Dallas.
- Why is Jason Terry linked to number 31? He chose it early at Arizona and carried it into the pros, making it a part of his public persona.
- What teams did Jason Terry play for with number 31? Dallas Mavericks, Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, Boston Celtics, and Milwaukee Bucks.