In celebration of their 50th year in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and for the Latine people and culture that makes up their hometown, the San Antonio Spurs unveiled a new Nike “Statement Edition” uniform on Monday (July 25).
The silver and black uniforms, which will be used for select games starting this upcoming season, feature a Mexican sarape-style design along the sides of the jersey and shorts. Stitched across the front of the jersey is the Spurs’ secondary logo with the letters “SATX.”
“Our new Statement Edition uniform embodies the evolution of our team’s roots while celebrating fans across the entire region,” Becky Kimbro, VP of Brand Engagement for Spurs Sports & Entertainment, said in a statement. “Through the intricate sarape pattern, we’re blending our 50-year legacy with our vibrant culture that we celebrate on and off the court.”
According to the NBA, the Spurs will wear five uniforms during the 2022-23 season – a White Association uniform, Black Icon uniform, a Classic Edition, a Statement Edition and a City Edition, which will not be unveiled until later this year.
While there were some mixed reactions from fans, many liked the design and reminded fellow fans that it could’ve been a lot worse. Anyone remember the military-inspired camouflage jerseys the team wore during the 2013-14 season?
Currently, the Spurs are in a rebuilding phase. After going to the playoffs for 22 straight seasons from 1997 to 2019 and winning five championships, the team has missed the postseason for three consecutive years. At 61%, the Spurs have the highest winning percentage of any team in NBA history.