New season, new swag: Nets’ new jerseys are a nod to Brooklyn and collaborator KAWS’ artistic legacy

The Brooklyn Nets unveiled their 2024-25 Nike NBA City Edition uniform on Thursday, marking the second collaboration with Brooklyn artist KAWS and underscoring the team’s commitment to supporting local designers.

To celebrate the launch, Nets players Nic Claxton and Cam Johnson will meet fans at Brooklyn Fanatics at Barclays Center on Nov. 14 at 6 p.m. for an exclusive signing session.

The new sportswear stays with the team’s signature black-and-white color scheme, while incorporating KAWS’ abstract lettering and a gray color palette with bold accent hues.

This partnership adds to the Nets’ tradition of collaborating with global icons and creators from Brooklyn. — The partnership with KAWS continues the Nets’ tradition of collaborating with global icons and Brooklyn-based creators. Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Nets.

According to a team spokesperson, the design is inspired by KAWS’ 10-part artwork, TENSION, incorporating his graphic style to feature a remixed Nets logo on the shorts. KAWS also added his distinctive “XX” motif to the waistband.

Differing from last year’s NBA City Edition uniform, KAWS displayed “Brooklyn” on the chest of the jersey instead of “Nets” “to proudly represent and celebrate the team’s home borough,” team representatives said.

“It was a pleasure to design my second City Edition uniform for the Nets, honoring my local team and community while paying tribute to the borough of Brooklyn,” KAWS said in statement.

KAWS paid homage to himself with design elements similar to his own art including his distinct "XX" motif. — KAWS paid homage to himself with design elements similar to his own art, including his distinct ‘XX’ motif. Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Nets.

Nike first introduced the City Edition line in 2017 to celebrate and honor each NBA team’s fans and unique community attributes. Previous launches honored Brooklyn icons The Notorious B.I.G. and Jean-Michel Basquiat, but this year celebrates its designer, KAWS.

Andrew Karson, executive vice president of marketing at Nets parent company BSE Global, said the partnership with the Brooklyn resident not only spotlights local talent but also helps the Brooklyn Nets better connect with their fanbase.

“Our latest City Edition collaboration continues the Nets’ commitment to cultural innovation and its fresh and expressive vision represents the borough we call home,” Karson said. “These uniforms reflect our connection to the community and KAWS’ distinctive artistic style perfectly captures the spirit of Brooklyn – bold, vibrant, and full of energy.”

The athletes will debut their new gear during a home game at Barclays Center on Dec. 1 and are slated to wear the new jerseys periodically throughout the season.

The Nets’ 2024-25 City Edition uniforms are now available for purchase online and at the Nets’ team store at Barclays Center, Brooklyn Fanatics.