LeBron James is bringing back short basketball shorts and he has a fascinating reason
They are not quite as short as the shorts worn by Larry Bird or Magic Johnson in the mid-1980s, but LeBron James is wearing shorter shorts this season, bucking the trend of baggy and long shorts that have become the norm in the NBA.
In addition to the shorts, James is also wearing a snugger jersey this season.
The reason behind the moves is fascinating as it has nothing to do with comfort or being trendy. In fact, James is trying to set a positive example.
Chris Haynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer spoke to some people close to James who explained the change was about being more professional. Haynes wrote:
This season he trimmed his uniform shorts by a couple inches, and had his jersey made snugger than in years past. He had expressed to those close to him he wants to leave the baggy look behind and place a renewed emphasis on professional appearance when it comes to the size of his uniform as well as his pregame and postgame attire.
Here is how LeBron's uniform this season compares to last season and the difference is certainly noticeable.
Haynes also notes that James also typically wears a sportcoat when he arrives to games, James' way of "reaffirming that it's a business atmosphere."
Of course, on the court, even LeBron has his limits. During a recent game in which the Cavs wore sleeved jerseys, James ripped the tight sleeves.
