Any regular NBA fan would be happy to own a jersey of their favourite player or team. A truly passionate one would be honoured.
It’s gonna be hard to gauge how much of a fan someone is. Thankfully, that’s not the case with basketball jerseys. Let this be your guide on how to spot an authentic NBA jersey. After reading this, you’ll be confident in putting up a collection of Boston Celtics or Dallas Mavericks jerseys.
1. Examine the Quality of Material
With an authentic jersey, the fabric should feel sturdy and durable. Look for a mix of polyester and nylon, offering a slight sheen. Replicas often use cheaper materials, lacking this quality.
2. Check the Stitching and Embroidery
Expect meticulous stitching in an authentic jersey. For this, you need to inspect the seams for consistent and tight stitching. Embroidered logos and player names should be perfectly aligned. Note that loose threads and uneven embroidery are signs of a counterfeit.
3. Inspect the Tags and Labels
Look for the NBA logo on the tags. Check for holograms or other security features. The manufacturer’s label should also be present, displaying the brand logo and size.
4. Verify the Team Logo
The team logo should be clear, sharp and securely attached to the jersey. Pay attention to the colours and details. Any blurriness or incorrect colours indicate a fake.
5. Look for the Jock Tag
An authentic jersey has a jock tag near the bottom hem. This tag includes the team logo, jersey size and a serial number. Verify that the serial number is unique and properly printed.
6. Examine the Player Name and Number
The player name and number should be stitched, not printed. In addition, the stitching should be clean and precise. Printed details are a clear sign of a replica.
7. Feel the Weight
Authentic jerseys are usually heavier than replicas. This is due to the high-quality materials and detailed stitching. If you have a guaranteed authentic jersey on hand, you can weigh the jersey in question against it.
8. Look for Retailer Authenticity
Purchase from reputable sources. Official team stores, the NBA store, and authorised retailers are reliable. Avoid questionable online sellers and marketplaces known for counterfeit goods.
9. Check for Pricing
If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Authentic jerseys are priced higher due to their quality. Extremely low prices often indicate a counterfeit.
10. Consult Reviews and Ratings
Check reviews of the seller before purchasing. Positive reviews and high ratings can indicate a trustworthy seller. Be wary of sellers with many negative reviews or complaints about authenticity.
11. Contact Customer Service
If in doubt, contact the seller’s customer service. Ask for details about the jersey’s authenticity. A genuine retailer should provide clear and honest information.
12. Be Mindful of Limited Editions
Limited-edition jerseys often have unique features like special tags or certificates of authenticity. Verify these features carefully. Counterfeiters often try to mimic limited editions due to their higher value.
Authenticity Matters for NBA Jerseys
Genuine jerseys, whether Celtics, Mavericks or any other team, should not only look good but also last longer. They provide a true connection to the team and the sport. When considering a purchase, take note of our tips to ensure confidence in authenticity. Knowing what to look for can save money and avoid disappointment.
