Think the recently announced Apple Smartwatch 3 is the hot new wearable of 2017? Think again. Nike and the NBA have just announced the world’s first ‘Connected Jersey’. The special jersey gives the wearer exclusive experiences and customized content from the fans’ favourite teams and players.
The technology behind the connected uniforms is simple. However, it’s the execution that makes each jersey so smart. Each shirt packs NikeConnect technology, which uses an embedded NFC chip to launch real-time team and player content – such as pre-game arrival footage, highlight packages and top players’ favourite music playlists – on the owner’s smartphone.
To make it work, wearers just download the NikeConnect app before tapping the jersey with their smartphone. The best bit? The content is regularly updated, which means fans can check in before each big match for new, exclusive video, music and more.
“Our Nike uniforms set a new standard for connecting our most passionate fans with their favourite NBA teams and players,” said Adam Silver, NBA Commissioner. “Nike has once again taken the game of basketball to a new level, this time with one of the most advanced jerseys in sports.”
The smart jerseys will be available online globally on September 29.
That wasn’t all that Nike and the NBA released this week. They also unveiled the third of four core team uniforms. Called ‘Statement Edition’, these jerseys are designed to make a bold statement as soon as players step on the court.
Nike’s designers worked with each team’s roster of athletes to create new and updated uniforms for the third edition, featuring personalized and collectible designs. The Statement Edition uniforms follow the unveiling of the Association and Icon collections.
As well as the uniforms, Nike and NBA announced the Nike Therma Flex Showtime Warm-up Jacket. It’s the first proper on-court worm-up jacket with a performance hood. The jacket – which uses Nike’s own Therma Flex fabric – helps athletes maintain the right body temperature during pre-game warm-ups and while sitting on the bench.
The new Flex Showtime Warm-up Jacket will debut on the court at the start of the NBA’s pre-season games. All Statement Edition jerseys and the hoodie will be available for sale on November 20.
