NBA Clothing Rules

The rules for NBA players have changed a great deal over the years, especially when it comes to the types of clothing they are permitted to wear. When you say "permitted to wear," you do not mean on a daily basis, but to work. Every game an NBA player plays is his job, therefore he must dress according to the rules established by the front offices of the NBA. The NBA enforced the clothing rule in 2005 and has stuck by it ever since.

Prior Dress Codes for the Sport

Those who play sports should be used to this type of dress code, because they have endured it throughout the majority of their basketball career. In high school and college, the players wore conservative attire to the game and if they were sitting on the bench due to injuries or other reasons.

NBA Dress Codes

If you have reached the NBA level, this is the professional career you worked hard to get to. The clothing requirements you endured throughout your high school and college years apply to all those who are playing basketball professionally in the NBA. The commissioner of the NBA and other affiliates thought it would be good to introduce these rules, because the players are representing the league.

A Conservative and Casual Look

The basic NBA clothing rules remain conservative. A dress shirt and tie are the suggested attire by the NBA commissioner, but as long as you remain conservative even in more casual wear, you will be fine. An alternative to a dress shirt and tie is "dress casual," which means a pair of slacks/pants and a nice shirt, sweater, or dress jacket/blazer. No one has to be in a three-piece suit, just the classy and conservative look. You must follow these rules only when attending a game or holding press conferences that are NBA related. Of course any interviews taken during shoot around, or in the homes of the players, do not have dress codes. Wearing a team warm-up suit or other team clothing during NBA-sponsored events is also allowed.

Positive Image of Players

The NBA wants to keep the image of their players positive. Some will argue that the clothing does not change the person who is wearing it, but the NBA disagrees. They feel that by setting a positive tone, outside of urban or hip hop wear, they calm the players and promote a professional environment. Although they are playing a sport they love as their job, it is still their job. With your job, you must be professional, and a uniform is required.

Fines and Exceptions

Players who do not follow the NBA clothing rules may be fined. If the player continues to ignore the dress code, he may also be suspended from playing in any future NBA games. Those who receive permission from their coaches may dress outside of the mandatory NBA dress code