Vintage looks have long stood as a staple of NBA fashion and streetwear. Players love to rock the classics and show off their affinity for fashion trends throughout the decades. Recently, the resurgence of bold 90s graphic Tees has definitely caught my eye. Graphic tees are designed to be just that: Eye catching. Bold letters paired with bright colors often falling on a white or black shirt allow statements to be made while maintaining a stylish look. Lets take a look at some of the NBA’s most iconic players rocking some 90s Graphic Tees.
The NBA bubble during the coronavirus pandemic consisted of drama, competition, and various players trying out new styles. Chris Paul traveled to Orlando as a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and was in the middle of an inspiring resurgence year before the pandemic put the league on pause, leading the young Thunder to a playoff berth at the age of 34 years. Although CP3 went to Wake Forest University, he got into the Orlando spirit by rocking a Florida A&M University vintage Tee that features Mickey Mouse on the front. Florida A&M is an HBCU that was supported by many NBA athletes in the bubble during the Black Lives Matter Movement.
Paul wasn’t the only athlete to use 90s graphic tees to support a cause, as Jaylen Brown was seen wearing a Malcolm X “No Justice No Peace” tee exiting his team bus in Orlando. Brown has been a recurring guest on the blog and is beloved for his activism and willingness to take charge. The Tee itself is your typical 90s style, consisting of multiple colors, minimal dead space, and a collage type layout.
Lately, NBA players have been wearing graphic tees in an attempt to pay homage to those that changed their game. Dwyane Wade, now retired, posted a picture of Instagram of him enjoying retirement life. The shirt that he is wearing is paying homage to Dennis Rodman, a transcendent rebounder, athlete, and character. Rodman earned the nickname “Worm” for his ability to squirm for rebounds. Dennis Rodman now a beloved athlete, but during his playing days he was extremely controversial. Rodman loved to party, and would sometimes leave the team without notifying them. He began the now popular trend of hair coloring in the NBA. Rodman continues to live a wild lifestyle, having once travelled to North Korea and befriending their dictator
When it comes to paying homage to the greats, Kobe Bryant is a popular name. Celtics young star Jayson Tatum rocked a spectacular Kobe Bryant Tee in a 90s style while in the bubble. This shirt is obviously not from the 90s because it is commemorating a recent event, but its slightly oversized look and vibrance definitely gives it that feel. Bryant began his playing career in 1996, and will be remembered as one of the most legendary players ever to grace the court in both the 90s and the 2000s
I love watching famous athletes stand out as activists as well and display their beliefs proudly. This post also made me want to go buy some 90s graphic tees, lol!
I never recognized how powerful graphic tees could be to make social/political statements! I also find it interesting that they have made a resurgence during the pandemic and in the wake of the race protests last summer. I’ve always loved graphic tees… but now, maybe I’ll start wearing them for political statements as well (also I just love graphic design from the 90s).
It is so amazing to see the influence of sports stars and celebrities in general on current issues by simply wearing a tshirt! As a lover of vintage tees, I’m glad they are popular right now! All the more reason to buy some more.