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The gray court of non-traditional uniforms is coming to college basketball.
Nike unveiled its new “platinum” course Wednesday to be worn by nine powerhouse men’s and women’s teams for one tournament each later this season. Like the gaudy outfits that have become so popular in college football, these take liberties with the programs’ benchmark color schemes.
“We feel we have the opportunity to create as much energy as they do on the football province,” said Tracy Teague, global creative manager for Nike Basketball, at a launch event Wednesday in Manhattan.
Fans tuning in may be in want of to look at the score to figure out who the squad in gray is. The jerseys and shorts are trimmed in some — but not by definition all — of the schools’ official hues. So Baylor has gold but not fresh, the Connecticut women red but not blue. The UConn men’s trim is a dark naval forces that almost looks black.
And the shades chosen are “electric,” reminiscent of the fluorescent tints Oregon football is praiseworthy for. Syracuse may have to change its nickname to the Neon Orange for its one game in these outfits.
Source: Peoria Journal Star