LeBron James is sporting smaller shorts to be role model

LeBron James has noticeably worn smaller shorts and a less baggy jersey this season, and he says it’s to be more of a role model to kids watching.

Have you watched LeBron James this year and thought that something was different? No, it’s not the hairline. No, it’s not the lack of a headband. No, it’s not the mustache either. It’s the uniform he’s sporting. In several cases it’s smaller. The shorts are a bit higher up on his legs, and his jersey is closer to his body.

While this seems like a minuscule change to some, looking back at what he wore when he first came in the league, it’s a big step for the kid from Akron that used to wear incredibly baggy shorts and a jersey that was–in all reality–way too big for him.

An era of baggy uniforms was ushered in by the Fab Five of Michigan University, but it looks like James is seeking to help end that era, and embrace an essence of professionalism to help players be better role models to kids that pay attention to the NBA.

Chris Haynes of Cleveland.com says that the new look is for the kids. He says, “He had expressed to those close to him he wants to leave the baggy look behind and place a renewed emphasis on professional appearance when it comes to the size of his uniform as well as his pregame and postgame attire.”

James has looked snazzy coming into the arena for the past few years, with his “strictly-business” look finished off by a nice pair of Beats headphones. He’s now taking that to the court. Is it necessary? Probably not, but it’s an initiative LeBron seems to care about.

James might be onto something. Smaller uniforms helps players move around quicker. The baggy uniforms really seem to inhibit players in some cases. We probably won’t ever head back to the days of super-short shorts, but the NBA jersey size is definitely becoming more conservative.