Organized basketball teams need basketball uniforms to give the appearance of a unified team. These uniforms can put a large dent in the budget of any team. Careful planning and shopping around for the best deal on the uniforms is necessary to minimize the financial impact.

It is imperative to purchase quality uniforms for the team. Some cheap uniforms are priced low due to poor workmanship. While it is important to consider the overall pricing and costs of basketball uniforms, it is equally important to consider the quality of them. Consider these suggestions to help you get the most from your uniform budget:

1. Invest in full uniform sets to minimize shipping costs and ensure consistency in the uniform colors and fabrics.

2. Replace worn or lost uniform items by ordering individual basketball uniform pieces.

3. Instill pride in your team by ordering warm-ups to go with the basketball uniforms.

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Purchase basketball uniforms in sets

When your team needs a change, or if it is just time for new basketball uniforms, purchasing uniforms in complete sets ensures all of the uniforms will look exactly the same. The downside to this is that some companies won't allow you to mix and match shirt and short sizes, which can be a problem for some teams. Make sure you order two uniforms for each player: one for home games and one for away games.

I recommend: Basketball Jerseys & Uniforms offers basketball uniforms in either sets or separates. Sets start at around $40. The price on certain uniforms includes a single color team name and a number on each side of the jersey. This company also offers flat rate shipping, starting at $10 for ground shipping. Lets Play Sports offers uniform sets, which are priced from under $40 up to $80, depending on the style. These all include free team name and number printing.

Order separates to replace worn out basketball uniforms

If you need to replace only certain uniform pieces, consider ordering separates. However, if you are placing an order for both tops and shorts, ordering full basketball uniforms may be a more cost effective option. If cost is a consideration, forego the customization of the warm-ups, unless it is offered free with your purchase.

I recommend: Corporate Apparel Unlimited sells basketball uniform separates. These items start at under $10 per item. This company offers embroidery and screen printing options for the items it sells. The price for these services depends on the exact specifications of the logo and/or lettering you want. In general, you can expect to pay a set up fee of around $50. Robbins Sports sells basketball uniform separates starting at under $20 per item. This company doesn't have a minimum quantity on orders. It also offers a flat rate for printing services.

Show team spirit with warm-ups for the basketball uniforms

Because basketball season is during the colder months of the year, you may need to add warm-ups to the basketball uniforms. Not only do these keep your team warm, they also add unity to the team. For school teams, these warm-ups can be worn to school to highlight the team members.

I recommend: You can find basketball uniforms, including warm-ups at Shop4Teams.com. This company has sets starting at $60. This company offers quantity discounts if you call the customer service number. GTM Sportswear offers customizable warm-up sets starting at under $50. This company offers fast shipping options.

If you're selling basketball uniforms, choose a prominent place in your business to stock and display them. Stock a selection of brand-name basketball uniforms that will appeal to players at all levels to meet the needs of your clients and avoid sending them to your competition.

Set yourself apart from the competition with both your large inventory of basketball uniforms and with exceptional customer service. Train your employees to be knowledgeable about basketball uniforms information so they can help customers find properly-sized basketball uniforms and avoid uncomfortable fits that can take the fun out of the game.

1. Make sure your basketball uniforms list includes a full selection of uniforms for adults.

2. Stock children's basketball uniforms as a part of your inventory.

3. Choose a basketball uniforms provider that offers good sales terms.

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Include adult basketball uniforms in your inventory

Stock plenty of basketball uniforms for adults, including uniforms for every body shape and size, from Extra Small to XXXL. Find basketball uniforms in a variety of styles and brands as well, so everyone can buy something they like. And don't forget to stock replica basketball uniforms from local and professional sports teams.

I recommend: Badger Sport can provide you with several styles of basketball uniforms; click "Contact Us" to sign up to become a dealer. Or contact Sports Belle, which also offers a variety of sizes and styles in basketball uniforms so you can build an impressive inventory.

Buy basketball uniforms for your smallest customers

Take into account the smaller members of your clients' families and provide the kids with a good selection of sizes and colors so they can find their own basketball uniforms. Keep the quality high and the prices reasonable, since kids outgrow their uniforms and need them replaced seasonally; a diverse selection at reasonable prices ensures customer loyalty.

I recommend: Get in touch with Yale Sportswear to buy basketball uniforms direct from the manufacturer; click "Contact Info" to inquire about accounts. Also consider signing up with Augusta Sportswear for an impressive selection of youth basketball uniforms; click "Register for an Account" to become a dealer.

Negotiate the best deal with basketball uniforms providers

Create a long-term partnership with basketball uniforms providers to negotiate the best terms possible. Discuss bulk rate shipping discounts and ask about becoming a preferred customer to qualify for more discounts.

I recommend: Bakka Sports makes basketball uniforms and related clothing; contact them to buy direct or find out about pricing and terms. Or apply for a business account at Teamwork to find out about their retailing terms.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Create a catalog or a basketball uniforms directory so you can offer custom-ordered personalized basketball uniforms for your customers without spending your money stocking and storing these more unusual uniforms.

Basketball uniforms can be as simple as a colored t-shirt or as complex as a breathable-jersey with reversible shorts and warm-up outfit. Choosing a uniform based on its curb appeal alone can be a huge detriment to your game, so consider all aspects of the uniform including the material of which it is made before making a decision.

Basketball uniforms and styles include the jersey made of varying materials, the sleeved option, a warm-up and even just a plain t-shirt with imprinted number. Each has its own benefits ranging from price to comfort. When selecting a uniform, you'll need to know what sizes you want to order, the color scheme you need and the ultimate style you want for your team. Start comparing these options when you:

1. View sleeved options in basketball uniforms.

2. Compare the sleeved option with a sleeveless version.

3. Consider sets of basketball uniforms that include shirts, shorts and warm-up outfits.

4. Look for specialty uniforms to fit your team needs.

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Review the options available in sleeved basketball uniforms

From t-shirts to logo-imprinted jerseys with pinstripes, the sleeved uniform comes in a variety of styles. Before deciding on a style, make sure you know what type of material of which the uniform is made and what to expect as far as breathability and shrinkage. This will help you decide on sizes as well.

I recommend: For more information about choosing the right jersey or uniform style, read information provided at Cub Spaces. Compare the mix and match uniform options available at SportUniform.com. For a design exclusive to girls that combines the sleeved and sleeveless styles, view the cap sleeve option at The Sporting Store.

Consider purchasing sleeveless basketball uniforms

There are many sleeveless basketball uniforms types and styles within this category. Styles include loose fit, form fitting, long and short wasted options. While some like the long waist option are common for both genders, others like the short waist are more common for female players. Review your sleeveless options and styles.

I recommend: For information about choosing a jersey that will help keep your players cool on the court, read the Cisco Athletics recommendations and view their options. Compare the men's and women's options at Uniforms Express, or review the design and price comparison at Lets Play Sports.

Get basketball uniforms the warm up pants and shirts

The warm-up basketball uniforms have gained popularity even in the high school arena. They can come in a basic sweat pant and sweatshirt design or with a fancier easy-off button and zip up jacket. The warm up is not a necessity, but many teams provide them as a way to keep players muscles warm and relaxed when they aren't playing.

I recommend: Compare the options the All Sports Uniforms stocks, or use the Logo Sports Wear website to review warm ups made of different materials.

Think about finding specialty basketball uniforms

Specialty uniforms from moisture control options to reversible mesh uniforms can make fitting all your players comfortable a lot easier. If the basic uniform isn't what you're looking for, compare a few customized uniform options.

I recommend: View reversible mesh jersey options at Dowdle Sports, or find moisture control jerseys at Basketball Jerseys and Uniforms. For youth sized uniforms, go to Home Grown Sporting Goods for comparisons.

Whether you're a big-time retailer to the NBA's finest or cater more to small-town varsity basketball teams, knowing the ins and outs of basketball uniforms can help keep your business on the ball. If a customer desires a custom-made uniform, you need to know how to fulfill that order. If the customer wants reversible practice jerseys, you should know what to look for. Keep some common basketball uniform terms in mind before heading into business.

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Microfiber

One of the common types of material used for basketball uniforms is microfiber. These synthetic fibers use polyester blends, which you can knit together to form the garments.

I recommend: Simply Good Stuff provides information on microfiber.

Name on back

Simply stated, the name on back of the uniform is a popular option for basketball uniforms. You can apply it with a strip of fabric, also called a nameplate, or sew it directly onto the jersey.

I recommend: Visit Uni Watch and scroll down to learn more about this term. You can see pictures of name-on-back jerseys by clicking on the links.

Practice uniforms

Practice uniforms are a more casual option for non-game type situations. They are sometimes reversible, allowing for half the team to be one color and the other half of the team the other color. This can help when scrimmaging against other members of the team. Players can also wear them for pick-up games or instances where the games are not as competitive as a regular one.

I recommend: Learn more about practice uniforms and see the reversible options by visiting Homegrown Sporting Goods.

Custom uniforms

Custom uniforms are ones that you specifically design to meet the customer's criteria. Whether the customer wants only one uniform or enough for an entire team, you need to make each uniform to the precise specifications.

I recommend: See Sportsunlimitedinc.com for an example of a custom basketball uniform.

Warm-up jackets

Worn before competitive basketball games, warm-up jackets allow players to stay warm before the game. Players on the bench can also wear them. Many retailers offer warm-up jackets paired with warm-up pants, which have snaps down both sides for quick removal.

I recommend: Visit Allen Sportswear to see pictures of common basketball warm-up jackets.