Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion
by Mitchell S. Jackson

Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion serves as both a visual feast and a critical exploration into the fascinating intersection of high fashion and basketball, chronicling its evolution from the league’s inception to the present day. Through vibrant photos and insightful commentary, this book celebrates the iconic style that has come to define NBA athletes.

What’s Inside

This book is divided into chapters that take you through the different eras of basketball fashion, each characterized by unique sartorial and cultural landmarks:

The Inception: 1949 Pre-Civil Rights Movement

In the league’s early years, predominantly white players donned suits and skinny ties, representing the formal fashion trends of the time.

Post-Civil Rights Act: The Flashy Years

The passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the rise of funk and R&B influenced a shift in basketball fashion. Icons like Walt "Clyde" Frazier and Wilt Chamberlain made statements with their fur coats and large hats.

The Michael Jordan Era: 1980s and 1990s

Michael Jordan brought a new level of fame to the sport and influenced fashion with his penchant for oversized suits, setting the tone for the era.

The Iverson/Hip-Hop Years: Late 1990s and Early 2000s

The fusion of basketball and hip-hop culture came to the forefront, with players like Allen Iverson influencing fashion in significant ways.

The Modern Era: From Social Media to Activism

Today’s athletes like LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Russell Westbrook are not just fashion trendsetters but are also seen as activists and icons, inspiring conversations that go beyond the game and attire.

Why This Book Matters

In the current cultural climate, where athletes are viewed as more than just players on a court, Fly: The Big Book of Basketball Fashion captures the zeitgeist. It not only delves into the fashion choices of these icons but also into the social and cultural contexts that shaped these choices. In a time defined by social media and activism, the book makes it clear: Basketball fashion is not just about clothes; it’s about making a statement, both on and off the court.