How to Choose a Basketball Jersey

Without a doubt, sports have always had an undeniable power to bring people together. From the ancient Greeks to the modern-day Olympics, people have come together to celebrate physical prowess and human achievement in the spirit of friendly competition. The enthusiasm and love for sports continue to grow stronger with every passing generation.

Among them, basketball is certainly one of the most popular sports in the world, with millions of fans across all continents. It’s no surprise then that basketball jerseys are among the most sought-after pieces of sports memorabilia. It doesn’t matter if you’re just looking to encourage your child to exercise or you want to show support for your favourite team, having this garment is a must for any die-hard fan.

How Do You Choose a Basketball Jersey?

For the most part, choosing a basketball jersey is not all that different from choosing any other type of clothing. But even so, there are a few telltale signs that you can use to ensure that you’re getting the best possible product.

Player’s Name

What’s the point of having a basketball jersey if it doesn’t have the name of your favourite player emblazoned across the back? After all, that’s one of the main reasons why people buy them in the first place.

Whether you’re a fan of legendary players and want to sport classic LeBron NBA jerseys or you’re all about the up-and-coming Zion Williamson, having the letters scribbled across the back is a must. The sheer pride and joy that will undoubtedly soar through your veins as you don the name of some of the most prolific individuals in the history of the sport are simply incomparable.

Home or Away Design

Most NBA teams have more than one jersey design, with one for home games and another for away games. The main difference between the two is usually the colour scheme, with home jerseys being white or light-coloured and away jerseys being dark-coloured.

Although recent rule changes have allowed teams to get a little more creative with their designs, the colour scheme is still the most distinguishing factor between home and away jerseys. Once you decide on whether you want iconic LeBron NBA jerseys or those of the late Kobe Bryant, you’ll have the chance to choose which pattern you prefer.

Limited Editions and Special Kits

From time to time, NBA teams will release special edition jerseys or completely new designs to celebrate a momentous occasion. It might be something as simple as a new league partnership or a star player’s retirement.

These are usually released in very limited quantities and are highly sought-after by collectors and fans alike. They’re also generally more expensive than the regular jerseys, so be prepared to spend a little extra if you’re dead-set on getting your hands on one.

For instance, LeBron James jerseys were flying off the shelves when he moved from the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Los Angeles Lakers. The fanfare and excitement that surrounded his transfer were unlike anything that basketball had ever seen before, leading to many people clamouring to get their hands on a jersey with his name on it.

Size and Fit

There’s no point in having a jersey that looks good but doesn’t fit because it’ll just end up collecting dust in the back of your closet. Why even get one in the first place if you can’t even flaunt it with pride?

Be sure to take accurate measurements of yourself before placing an order to ensure that you get the right size. Some size charts can be found on the official NBA website, which is always a good starting point since you’ll have a better idea of what to expect.

How Can You Spot a Fake Basketball Jersey?

When you’re an avid basketball fan, having an authentic sports garment is certainly at the top of the list. But with so many imitations and replicas on the market, how can you be sure that what you’re getting is the real deal? Truth is, it’s not as hard to spot a fake as you might think.

Rigid Fabrics

One of the first things you’ll notice about a genuine jersey is that it’s made from high-quality, breathable fabric. This material is designed to wick away sweat and moisture, keeping you cool and comfortable even during the most intense games or fan gatherings.

On the other hand, knock-off jerseys are usually made from cheap, stiff fabric that doesn’t allow proper ventilation. This can quickly lead to discomfort and irritation, especially if you’re wearing it in warm weather.

Stitching Defects

If you take a close look at the stitching of an authentic jersey, you’ll notice that it’s even and consistent throughout. There are no loose threads or irregularities and any fly-aways can easily be trimmed without affecting the overall structure of the garment. The level of detail and craftsmanship that goes into making a single jersey is quite astounding.

In contrast, replicas often have shoddy stitching that quickly starts to unravel. The threads are usually thinner and not as sturdy, so they’re more prone to breaking. This can cause the jersey to fall apart at the seams, which is certainly not something you want to happen in the middle of a game or while you’re out with friends.

Discolouration and Logo Misplacement

The colours of an original piece of sportswear are always vibrant and consistent, without any bleeding or fading. The team’s logo is also placed in the correct spot – typically on the left side of the chest – and is exactly the same size as it is on the official website.

On counterfeit models, however, the colours are often dull and lifeless. The logos are also often misplaced or distorted, which is a dead giveaway that it’s not the real thing. You may even notice spelling mistakes on the back where the player’s name is printed.

Low Price

You know the drill – if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. The same goes for jerseys. If you come across one that’s being sold at a significantly lower price than the retail value, chances are it’s not the real deal.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule and you may be able to find a genuine model at a bargain. However, if the price range seems a bit too sketchy to believe, it’s probably best to steer clear.