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Style Tip-Off: What to Wear This NBA Season.

Hardwood Heritage
October 21, 2025
The NBA season tiped-off! And it’s more than a game; it sets the tone for the months ahead. Basketball has shaped fashion for decades, influencing everything from streetwear to luxury design. Inspired by the energy of the upcoming basketball season, we’ve pitted two looks against one another, each blending sport, culture, and everyday style.

The Shoes

Starting strong, outfit one features the PUMA x LaMelo Ball MB.04 Creativity Pack, a design inspired by LaMelo’s approach to both basketball and style. Born from the mindset of “Be Melo,” with nods to his personal iconography, it’s a lesson in dynamism as seen through colour blocking and sculptural details that blend performance with personality. Every element feels intentional, from the lightweight cushioning to the eye-catching accents, and therefore, we’ve intentionally chosen to use these sneakers to kick off the first look.

Outfit two highlights the MB.01 Alien Safari, another statement sneaker from the same collection, this one mirroring LaMelo’s “out-of-this-world” confidence. The textured upper and vibrant patterning push the boundaries of traditional courtwear while keeping the performance foundation intact. These are shoes built for expression as much as for movement, carrying an unmistakable energy into the competing look.

The Outfits

On the court and in the streets, basketball culture has always had a dialogue with fashion. Historically, in related fashion trends, it’s about layering attitude with utility and building tension through bold graphics and clean lines, all filtered through an athletic performance lens. We’ve infused this approach into these outfits, always with elements of the NBA in mind. The contrasts play on player identity: one look is bold, wrapped in statement layers; the other keeps things clear and clean (but still with some funk).

Look number one is the Challenger. It starts with a pair of basketball shorts, cut for movement and flair. Then comes the LaMelo Alien Skin Dime Jacket, which leans futuristic, printed with an all-over extraterrestrial vibe and made with a mix of recycled materials. Underneath, the Hooptopia Oversized Basketball Tee gives volume and ease, while funky arm sleeves echo the jacket’s texture, bringing cohesion and an assertive edge to the entire ensemble.

Look number two is the Contender. Also grounded in hoops DNA, it pairs the Hoop Dreamz basketball shorts with a Tyrese Haliburton “Overrate That” Tee, a clever nod to on-court swagger. This is layered with the matching Basketball Hoodie for structure and warmth, perfect for pre-game or post-hoop moments.

The Accessories

Each outfit brings its own personality and performance to the court, one built on precision, the other on expression. Look number one keeps accessories bold but functional: the LaMelo Ball Crossbody Bag adds a practical edge with compact storage and a sleek, performance-inspired flair. The Basketball Pro Adjustable Hat grounds the look in classic courtside culture, while keeping it effortless and wearable off the hardwood.

The second look plays with contrast: iconic basketball crew socks, along with a soft mint headband, give it that authentic pre-game energy, while a practical Tote Bag brings a touch of versatility for life beyond the court. A polished silver chain ties it all together, adding a subtle shine that feels confident without trying too hard.
As the season tips off, the influence of the game extends beyond the court. And whether you lean into performance pieces or prefer street-ready layers, basketball-inspired style is always relevant.

In collaboRation

Kristine Mitchell - Blogger
Kristine Mitchell is a freelance journalist whose work explores global culture, creative expression and patterns she observes in the world around her.

🏀 Game on!

The NBA season 25/26 has kicked off!


Keep an eye on our PUMA Hoops athletes representing our brand on and off the courts this season:


  • LaMelo Ball (Charlotte Hornets)

  • Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)

  • Scoot Henderson (Portland Trail Blazers)

  • Marcus Smart (LA Lakers)

  • RJ Barrett (Toronto Raptors)

  • Josh Giddey (Chicago Bulls)

  • Michael Porter Jr. (Brooklyn Nets)

  • Dennis Schroeder (Sacramento Kings)

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