Basketball players need to be able to move freely on the court. Whether it is executing a perfect jump shot or getting the crowd to go wild for their incredible dunk, their movements need to be unhindered. Their uniforms help them do that, and they are not restrictive.
One way that they do this is by wearing a shirt under their jerseys. Though they might seem casual, the shirts that NBA players wear under their jerseys actually serve an important purpose. The shirts are not simply regular t-shirts as some may believe, but they are compression shirts designed to enhance muscle performance. They have been shown to increase muscle strength, reduce risk of injury and improve circulation.
In addition to enhancing performance, the shirts also provide a more professional appearance. They are worn by the teams for their home games and away games. This ensures that the team will not be confused with their opponents.
It is not uncommon to see college players wearing a shirt under their jerseys as well. This might be a result of their tradition and culture or as a way to show off their personal style.
It is important to note that the shirts must be legal in order for players to be able to play. This means that they must be similar to the torso color of the jersey and they must not have any frayed edges. They must also not have any writing on the sleeves or a visible manufacturer’s logo/trademark.