Jersey Talk - Cut the Sleeves

One week has passed. The Heat have already lost twice. The Lakers are, in my opinion, more fun to watch than ever (except for Swaggy P,  whose recent demotion has spared me an early heart attack). Michael Carter-Williams is the new prepubescent star of the league (see Steph Curry).

But basketball storylines aside, let's talk about those jerseys!  

Sleeves = The Worst

I still cannot get myself to appreciate these poor excuses for a jersey update. First, the jersey instantly makes Eric Bledsoe's rapey look even rapier (above, left). Second, after reading a Grantland article on the NBA's new jerseys by Wesley Morris, who appears to be a fan of these misproportioned monstrosities, I was taken aback by one line in particular:

"The sleeves were actually pretty innovative. You could see what the league's clothier, Adidas, had in mind. The shirts appeared to weigh less than the tank tops. They brought the sport in line with rugby and soccer. "

Now, tell me: Why does the NBA need to be "brought in line" with rugby and soccer? Since its inception, the NBA and its stars have elevated the game of basketball to one of the most popular and lucrative sports in the world. The NBA has arguably influenced American pop culture more than any other professional sport, successfully blurring the lines between sport, fashion, music and movie. All joking aside, though, baseball has its classic buttoned shirts, and football its oversized t-shirts. The NBA has forged its own identity and done so with its own distinct look - the tank top jersey.

Has Kobe ever complained that his arms felt "too free" in his jersey? Has he ever thought he didn't look intimidating enough, and he wished he could cover his guns and tattoos with some tight sleeves?

I just can't see any justification for these hideous new jerseys other than the self-evident opportunity to make more money. But please leave some comments and enlighten me!

 .JJ
Self-Proclaimed Fashion Editor, TheSportingNerd