Basketball Uniforms Key Terms

Suit up with some common terms for basketball uniforms

By Darcy Chadwick

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.

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