"Without the labor caveat, new NBA merchandise should have
the potential to produce another good year at retail," according
to Dana Parker of NSGA RETAIL FOCUS. In a survey of retailers,
the "hottest" single NBA product is the Champion replica jersey.
Doug Schooley of Pro Image said after replica jerseys, apparel
getting "the most play are sleeveless T's, such as those from
Starter and Champion and the new shooting shirts." Of the
manufacturers, Starter "seems to be offering one of the largest
arrays of new items," including new "halftime jackets" worn by
ballpersons on the court. Although several companies will
emphasize "more upscale, less conspicuous looks" (polo shirts,
lightweight sweaters) Champion has one of the "most ambitious
fall introductions," with a line of NBA Practicewear and a
replica line for USA Basketball. On "who's hot, who's not" among
teams: The Magic were mentioned by "just about everyone,"
followed by the Bulls, Suns and Hornets. New uniforms should
also spark interest in the Sonics, Hawks, and Rockets, while the
Lakers could flourish in an empty L.A. football market.
According to retailers, the Raptors and Grizzlies have generated
little interest. But the "appeal of new colors strictly on a
fashion basis seems to be waning." Gordon Hemingway of MI-based
Dunham's Athleisure: "The fashion end is bad. ... Teams like the
Ducks, Sharks, and Lightning from the NHL made it just on colors
and designs. It's not happening anymore" (NSGA RETAIL FOCUS,
9/95 issue).
THE SUN NEVER SETS WHEN YOU'RE MICHAEL: In an interview
with the CHICAGO SUN-TIMES' Rick Telander, Michael Jordan was
wearing Oakley Sunglasses. Asked why Oakley, Jordan responds:
"Well, we haven't officially announced it yet ..." Telander says
to add Oakley to Jordan's endorsement list (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES,
9/20).
