Nike offered a first look at its new NBA jerseys, each of which are partially made out of approximately 20 recycled plastic bottles. Nike, which is replacing Adidas as the NBA’s official apparel provider starting next season, said the new uniforms weigh less, fit better and remove sweat 30 percent faster than those currently used.
Nike employed 3D-body maps of players, including heat and sweat maps, in designing the jerseys, early versions of which were tested by NBA players on last year’s gold medal-winning USA Basketball team. “The fact that Nike listened to all of our feedback while developing the new NBA uniforms speaks volumes,” said Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving. “I’m excited for the new fit and feel.”
Coinciding with the introduction of the new uniforms, the NBA has eliminated its “home” and “road” uniform designations, allowing home teams to pick which of their uniforms will be worn at home games. Nike and the NBA have worked together to create four core uniforms for each team, including two traditional versions, one inspired by NBA players and a final one inspired by fans or the team’s community.