What number is retired for fans?

The Fan as a Player: Retired Numbers That Honor Loyalty

Across the world of sports, jersey numbers often become sacred—retired to honor legendary athletes who shaped the history of their teams. But sometimes, the honor goes not to a player, but to the fans themselves.

In football, both in its association (soccer) and gridiron (American) forms, teams have famously retired number 12 as a tribute to the fans—the so-called "twelfth man." The idea is simple: while only eleven players are on the field for each side, the energy, roar, and unwavering support of the crowd can be just as impactful as any starter. Clubs like the Seattle Seahawks have embraced this with ceremonies officially recognizing fans as the 12th player, even retiring the number in their honor.

Likewise, in the NBA, two franchises—the Sacramento Kings and the Orlando Magic—have retired number 6. Why? To acknowledge the "sixth man," a nod to the fans who elevate home-court advantage to an art form. In basketball, the term "sixth man" traditionally refers to the first player off the bench, but these teams redefined it. Their fans, they say, bring an energy that’s just as vital as any substitution.

These gestures may be symbolic, but they speak to something real—the deep, emotional bond between a team and its supporters. In retiring these numbers, clubs aren’t just hanging a jersey on the wall; they’re enshrining the collective passion of the crowd. It’s a reminder that while athletes come and go, the fans are the enduring heartbeat of the game.