McGrady - Ariza Jersey Number Switch

The Houston Rockets announced today that Tracy McGrady and Trevor Ariza will be switching jersey numbers.

From Jason Friedman of Rockets.com:

McGrady, who also wore the #3 in high school, will make the switch to bring attention to his “Darfur Dream Team” humanitarian project and the “3 Points” documentary that chronicles his journey to the refugee camps in Chad, Africa during the summer of 2007. McGrady says his visit to Chad was life changing and having the privilege to have freedom and peace in his life is something he will never take for granted. By wearing #3, he honors those who are forced to live without that freedom and peace. The “3 Points” documentary directed by Josh Rothstein is a reference to the goals of peace, protection and punishment with regards to the horrific atrocities suffered in the Darfur region of the Sudan. The documentary is scheduled for nationwide screenings beginning this fall.

On Jan. 3, 2008, McGrady took part in a special assembly at his alma mater, Auburndale High School (Auburndale, FL), to announce his participation in the “Darfur Dream Team” humanitarian project. McGrady made a $75,000 donation that will be used to renovate and build a school in the Djabal Camp in Eastern Chad. As part of this program, McGrady named Auburndale High School as a sister school to the one being built in Chad. The money raised will also help train teachers, as well as provide a year’s worth of school materials, clothing and other essentials for students. For more detailed information, please visit darfurdreamteam.org.

McGrady’s new adidas #3 jerseys are not scheduled to be available at NBA licensed retail outlets until Sept. 15, but Rockets fans have the opportunity to purchase replica #3 jerseys, as well as replica Ariza #1 jerseys now through rocketsshop.com. All jerseys are provided through adidas – the official uniform and apparel provider for the NBA.