Why the Indiana Pacers are wearing the same uniform in every 2024 NBA playoff game
All gold everything, an 'unprecedented' move: The Pacers leaned into the gold theme, both with their uniforms in each playoff game and the atmosphere at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
When the Indiana Pacers take the floor for Game 4 against the Boston Celtics on Monday night, there’s no doubt what they will be wearing.
For this one — a must-win game — and all 17 games this postseason, the Pacers have chosen to wear their yellow Statement Edition uniforms.
According to a spokesman for the organization, it was a decision made by the players and the team. They believe “gold best represents Indiana and the playoffs.”
The decision simplifies game day for the players. It’s one less thing to think about and decide. They just know. And can match their shoes accordingly. That’s a big deal, ya know.)
In some ways, it’s also easier on equipment managers Zach Eagle and Cole Petraits too. It’s one set of uniforms to take on the road. However, it also mandates in a quick turnaround to do the laundry, set everything out and replace any item that is becoming too worn because of the physicality in the playoffs.
And when on the road for a pair of playoff games, like games 1 and 2 in Boston, the opposing teams’ equipment staff provides the assist by washing practice gear and uniforms.
Not only are the Pacers wearing the same uniforms, but the organization has gone all-in to make each home game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse is a gold-out.
So gold t-shirts were on every seat for six of the games and rally towels were provided at the other two games.
“It’s the ultimate connectivity for a marketing campaign to provide a through line through what is on the court, given out in the arena and linked to digital and physical marketing in and around the team,” said Christopher Arena, the head of on-court and brand partnerships at the NBA. He plays a big role in development of team identities and outfitting all teams through their partnership with Nike.
Here’s how the process works.