Despite being not able to play next season for the Indiana Pacers, All-Star forward Paul George will be changing his jersey number from 24 to 13.

George sought for a change in his jersey number as early as March this year, as required by the NBA. March was the deadline set by the league.

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George likewise opted to buy up all of the old jerseys even though he did not need to do that.

The idea most likely came from ESPN's Bill Simmons who gave an advice to George on how he can be a household name in May last year.

Simmons wrote that the All-Star small forward should immediately change his jersey number to 13.

"Uh-oh, PG-13 is heating up! Warning, this game contains strong language, violence and a possible heat check!" Simmons said.

George liked the idea. "That's got a ring to it, PG-13," said George when interviewed last January on a late-night talk show.

According to sales from the online NBA Store and NBA Store in New York City, George is 15th in jersey sales. Observers see that his change in jersey number could bolster the sales of his new jersey.

Geroge wore the number 24 because of Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant, who also changed his jersey number from 8 in 2006.

Cleveland Cavaliers' LeBron James has switched his number back to 23 when he came back to his hometown. He did not need to apply for a change since he was changing teams as well.

George has been sidelined next season of the NBA due to a freak injury he incurred during a Team USA scrimmage when his leg smashed into the backboard stanchion.

TagsLebron James, cleveland cavaliers