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Sleeved Jerseys Violate NBA Rules

They're not just ugly- the NBA's Christmas jerseys are actually a violation of the NBA rule book

nba.com

When the NBA and Adidas first unveiled their "BIG Logo" Christmas jerseys, the internet (this site included) lambasted them. They are ugly, they resemble pajamas, etc. In short, they weren't well-received. Well, on top of all that, it turns out the jerseys actually violate the NBA's own rule book. The official book reads as follows:

Section VI—Uniforms (Players Jerseys)
a. Each player shall be numbered on the front and back of his jersey with a number of solid color contrasting with the color of the shirt (note: in hindsight, this rule was actually violated by LAST year's Christmas jerseys!).
b. Each number must be not less than 3/4" in width and not less than 6" in height on both the front and back. Each player shall have his surname (note: this rule is clearly violated by the "nickname" jerseys that the Miami Heat and Brooklyn Nets are schedule to wear this season as well) affixed to the back of his game jersey in letters at least 2" in height.

I suppose you can make the argument that the sleeve could be considered part of the front of the jersey, but I don't think (I admittedly can't be sure) that the number on the sleeve is at least six inches tall. However, even if you make that argument, you then have this little nugget:

H. PLAYER/TEAM CONDUCT AND DRESS

(4) While playing, players must keep their uniform shirts tucked into their pants, and no T-shirts are allowed.

It doesn't get much clearer than that. No T-shirts allowed. YOU HEAR THAT, ADIDAS? We knew the NBA were hypocrites, but this is just ridiculous.