Bruce Dias 
When we talk about the NBA, we usually discuss the impressive skills and talent of the players. But beyond their basketball abilities, NBA players are also known for their unique fashion sense. From designer suits to statement outfits, they project their style both on and off the court. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the evolution of basketball fashion, how NBA players became style icons and the influence they have on the fashion industry.
The Early Days of Basketball Fashion
Basketball fashion has come a long way since the early days of the sport. At the time, players wore plain uniforms made of wool or cotton with no emphasis on style. It wasn’t until the 1970s that the first NBA player, Walt Frazier, began to stand out with his shimmery suits. He became known for his sartorial choices, which consisted of colorful satin jackets, wide-brimmed hats, and fur coats. This marked the beginning of NBA players becoming fashion icons. Frazier’s trendsetting style paved the way for future players to express themselves through fashion.
The 80s And 90s: Hip-Hop Influence
The 80s and 90s brought the hip-hop culture, and NBA players began to emulate the flashy and bold fashion of this genre. Michael Jordan is one of the most well-known players who made an impact on basketball fashion in the 90s. 
He was known for his baggy pants, gold chains, and sharp suits, which became the epitome of the hip-hop style. Other players during this era, such as Allen Iverson, Dennis Rodman, and Shaquille O’Neal, also explored streetwear and unconventional fashion, creating their unique style.
The New Millennium: Designer Suits And Statement Outfits
In the new millennium, NBA fashion took a significant turn by becoming more high-end and extravagant. Designer suits, fine fabrics, and statement accessories are now part of the players’ fashion repertoire. Dwyane Wade, one of the most stylish players in the NBA, is known for his love of bespoke suits, which he wears on and off the court. Other players, such as Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and LeBron James, also make fashion statements with their bold clothing choices and accessories. Their fashion sense has become so significant that they now attend some of the biggest fashion shows and events around the world.Â
The Fashion Industry Takes Notice
With the rise of social media, NBA players’ fashion sense has gained much exposure and media attention. They have become influencers and have caught the attention of big fashion houses and designers. 
Players have collaborated with several fashion brands, such as LeBron James’ partnership with Nike, James Harden’s deal with Adidas, and Westbrook’s collaborations with Jordan and Barneys New York. These partnerships have resulted in exclusive clothing lines, shoes, and accessories that appeal to NBA fans and the fashion-conscious alike.
Conclusion
The NBA has evolved over the years, not only in terms of players’ skills and team dynamics but also in fashion. From the early days of plain uniforms to the present-day extravagant designer clothing, NBA players have become style icons. They have created their unique fashion sense, which has become a part of their identity both on and off the court. As fans of the sport, watching them play is not the only thing exciting about the NBA. Watching how their style evolves each season is also worth keeping an eye on. If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends of the NBA, go check out FanDuel’s NBA standings.
