Mitchell & Ness: NBA legend jerseys

The licence that allows old jerseys

Mitchell & Ness is a Philadelphia company that specializes in vintage jerseys. It was the first licensed brand of the NBA's Hardwood Classics program, which allows the reproduction of uniforms worn by franchises over the years. This is why you can find jerseys of retired players here, featuring the logos from back then.

Bird, Magic, Pippen, Iverson: choose your era

The choice of a retro jersey starts with an era. The Bird and Magic years, with the Celtics and the Lakers, open the selection. Then comes Pippen with the Bulls, Ewing with the Knicks, and Mutombo with the Nuggets. The next generation includes Allen Iverson in Philadelphia, Shaquille O'Neal in Los Angeles, Dwyane Wade in Miami, or a young LeBron James in Cleveland.

The Lakers and Bulls are the most represented franchises, followed by the Sixers and Celtics.

Swingman jerseys, between fan and player

Most of the jerseys on the page are Swingman. Numbers and names are sewn or applied, and the fabric is similar to that of vintage game jerseys, with a cut designed to be worn daily. Some series change the graphics, like the Doodle or Jumbotron in mesh.

Mesh shorts, satin and legend t-shirts

For a more understated retro style, the rest of the wardrobe suffices. The Lakers' or Spurs' mesh shorts take on the wide cut of game shorts. The satin jacket of the Bulls recalls the bench jackets of the nineties. T-shirts featuring Ben Wallace, Gary Payton, or Isiah Thomas are cheaper than jerseys and can be worn every day.

A corner for NFL also completes the page, with jerseys of Joe Montana or Reggie White.

New Era, 47Brand, Jordan: other fan wardrobes

Other brands on the page Brands speak to US sports fans. The textiles New Era dress current franchises, with sweats from the Bulls and Lakers and NFL jerseys. The sweats and joggers 47Brand focus on baseball and hockey. For kids, the page Jordan offers junior clothing, with sweats and joggers leading the way.

A retro jersey at a softer price

The jerseys of legends hit the highlights of the site. The selection Black Friday textile opens the end of the year, then Christmas textile helps find a fan gift. The sales follow, and the clearance page keeps the last sizes all year round.

Frequently asked questions

Is a Mitchell & Ness jersey an official jersey?

Yes, these jerseys are produced under NBA licence, with the league and franchise logos. They are not game-worn jerseys, but authorised reproductions. The tag and embroidered logos help distinguish them from counterfeits.

Do Swingman jerseys fit large?

They follow American sizing, generally a bit roomier than European sizes. Take your usual size for a loose fit, or one size down for a more fitted jersey. The size guide on the sheet gives the chest width.

How to wash a retro jersey with sewn numbers?

Turn it inside out, wash it in cold water on a delicate cycle and without fabric softener. Never put it in the dryer: heat can detach the applications. Let it dry flat, away from a radiator.

Are there Mitchell & Ness jerseys for women?

Yes, a few jerseys and shorts are offered in women's cut, notably in the colours of the Lakers and Sixers. They are shorter and more fitted than men's models. The gender filter makes them appear all at once.

How to wear a retro jersey in the city?

The simplest way is to wear it over a white t-shirt or a hoodie, with jeans or joggers. Avoid adding other team logos: the jersey is enough. A cap in the franchise colours can complete the look, but that’s all.