Hey NBA, here are some new alternate uniform ideas
By Ryne Prinz
![November 7, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) during a stoppage in play against Houston Rockets during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports November 7, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) during a stoppage in play against Houston Rockets during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/bb8777e3ba0b9cc44362689f3f27692a76e50672706bbb35d2e6d62e8d32d24f.jpg)
During the last several NBA seasons, many teams have implemented a smorgasbord of alternate uniforms. Some have been designed very well and look outstanding. On the other hand, many have have been subjected to a recent trend of a cookie-cutter uniform model.
First, sleeved jerseys have grown infamous as of late. They aren’t extremely popular with fans of the league, and apparently LeBron isn’t fond of them either. Sleeves on a basketball jersey just look unnatural and uncomfortable. Also, every team in the league seemingly has a black alternate uni. Just last night, the Los Angeles Clippers unveiled their rendition. Don’t get me wrong, I’m game for sleek black alternate uniforms, just like the Suns had in the 90s. But when nearly every team has one, they inevitably become mundane. To spice up the NBA’s on-court apparel, I’ve decided to come up with a few ideas of my own.
Business as usual
In baseball, managers wear the same exact uniform as the players do, so let’s bring that to the NBA but in some weird, twisted way. Players would wear a blazer and dress pants paired with a shirt and tie of their respective team’s color. They could even throw in a pocket square to accessorize. Ideally, players who are injured or resting will wear the team’s actual uniform. Sure, it may not be the most comfortable of attire, but they’ll sure as heck look good out there.
Overall, a fantastic uniform
Inspired by our savior Russell Westbrook, I designed these specifically for the Oklahoma City Thunder. OKC’s entire repertoire of kits are lackluster to say the least. Add one of the funkiest pieces of clothing donned by one of the league’s most unusual superstars, and it’s a match made in heaven.
Mascot madness
Back in the day, there was a mode on college football video games where you could play as the mascots. I took that, applied it to pro basketball and voila! Players will dress in their mascot’s costume. Imagine five Benny the Bulls squaring up against a squad of Stuff the Magic Dragons. Granted, teams without cuddly representatives are left out — sorry Nets, Warriors, Clippers, Lakers and Knicks — but it’s still fun nonetheless! Robin Lopez, a noted mascot adversary, becomes the center of underlying storyline if the league incorporates this idea. Will he seize this opportunity to take his furry foes down from the inside? Hopefully we find out.
NBA jerseys have always been among the most popular of the league’s gear. Fans want unique and creative uniforms to rep their favorite team. Or overalls. Overalls are good.