The History of the Basketball Uniform
Basketball was invented in 1891 by Dr Frank Naismith and the Basketball Uniform players wore back then are very different than what is found on the courts today. The Basketball Jersey was simply a short sleeve shirt and instead of shorts, men wore Basketball Pants that were loose fitting to allow for the movement required to play the games.
The Boston Rubber Shoe Company introduced the Converse All Star in 1917 and the shoe became part of the Basketball Uniform, worn by all who played the game in that era. As time went by and the game became more popular, the Basketball Uniform began to change to become more functional.
First the Basketball Pants got shorter and shorter until they became basketball shorts. The short sleeve shirts were altered and changed until they morphed into what are now known as a Basketball Jersey. To distinguish one player for another numbers were added first on the front of the Basketball Jersey, then onto the back where they could be larger and more visible to the referees and statisticians.
In the 1960s and 1970s the Basketball Uniform was characterized by short shorts and tank tops for the Basketball Jersey. Shoes continued to be important but not all players wore converse all stars as other brands competed. Some companies even began paying players to wear their shoes on the court. Headbands and wristbands became standard wear during that time and they continue to be worn today.
Throughout its evolution, the Basketball Uniform has sought a compromise between style and functionality. Players and fans want to look good, have maximum mobility, and be proud to be identified with their team. The Basketball Jersey and Basketball Pants of yesterday may have changed, but the idea behind their design has remained consistent.
