The 2020 Uni Watch College Basketball Season Preview
This has been an odd month for sports. Normally, we’d have football, basketball and hockey all in full swing — a smorgasbord of athletic offerings — but the scheduling machinations caused by the pandemic have scrambled the usual sports calendar. The NBA isn’t slated to begin its 2020-21 season until Dec. 22, and the NHL won’t be dropping the puck until New Year’s Day at the earliest.
But college hoops, which usually starts its season in early November, is just about ready to resume, with the 2020-21 season scheduled to tip off on Nov. 25 — the day before Thanksgiving. And that means it’s time for the annual Uni Watch College Basketball Season Preview, with all of the info you need about this season’s new uniforms, court designs and related news.
Before we get to our team-by-team breakdown, it’s worth mentioning that college hoops is always a huge uniform realm to cover, with a whopping 357 Division I schools spread out over 32 conferences (although eight of those schools won’t be playing this season, because the Ivy League has canceled fall and winter sports), all of which were contacted during the preparation of this article. Things were a bit tricky this year, because the pandemic has led to supply-chain slowdowns that have resulted in uni-delivery delays for some schools. In addition, many of the schools’ media representatives have been forced to work from home, which in some cases has prevented them from gathering uniform photos and related materials (plus they’re just frazzled because, well, you know).
That said, we still have more than 100 schools represented in this year’s Season Preview, which is about the same as for a normal year. Schools that aren’t listed either reported no changes for the coming season or didn’t respond to your friendly uniform columnist’s inquiries (many of them seem to be busy with other stuff this year — go figure). Or maybe — just maybe — there was news that flew under your columnist’s radar. It does happen!
Okay, enough preliminaries. Ready to see a slew of new college hoops uniforms, arranged alphabetically by conference and then alphabetically within conference? Ready … deep breath … go!
ACC
All Teams
If you’re used to seeing coaches wearing suits and ties, get ready for something different this year, at least in the ACC, as the conference’s coaches have voted to wear polo shirts this season. Casual Friday every day of the week!
Boston College
The Eagles have a new retro-themed light-gray uniform for their season-opening game against Villanova on Nov. 25:
New throwbacks for Boston College. They'll be worn for the season opener against Villanova on Nov. 25. pic.twitter.com/WgYX10speV
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 21, 2020
“This uniform is inspired by two of BC’s most historic teams — 1958 and 1994,” says a team rep. “The ‘Boston College’ lettering and numbers on the front of the jersey mimic the jerseys from 1958, which was BC’s first NCAA tournament team. The retro logo and placement on the shorts come from the 1994 Elite Eight team. And the gray base color is a 2020 touch.”
Clemson
The Tigers, like many teams, are adding a social justice patch this season. It bears the word “Unity”:
FIRST LOOK: It appears basketball will also wear a “Unity” patch on their jerseys like football has done since game 5 vs Georgia Tech
: Village Alterations (Facebook) @ClemsonMBB | #ClemsonGRITpic.twitter.com/QVdIQkfslQ
— Clemson Uniform Tracker (@ClemsonUniforms) November 9, 2020
Duke
While many other teams are wearing social justice patches, the Blue Devils are taking things a step further by printing “Equality” beneath their back jersey numbers (additional info here):
Georgia Tech
Tech is doing all the basic “change for change’s sake” tricks, mixing and matching jersey elements to make it seem like they’re overhauling the design, when they’re really not changing anything of substance (additional info here):
New uniforms for Georgia Tech. New versions on top, old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/am52mnv3S0
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 14, 2020
Louisville
The Cardinals will have social justice messaging fore and aft this year, with a “United as One” patch on the front of their jerseys and “Unity” printed below the numbers on the back:
𝙐𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚.#Team107 pic.twitter.com/qfISgbGWfF
— Louisville Basketball (@LouisvilleMBB) November 5, 2020
Miami
No visuals, but a team rep says the Hurricanes are another team that will be wearing “Unity” below their back uni numbers.
Also: Expect the ’Canes to unveil a new black alternate made from recycled materials shortly after the December holidays, and there’s also an orange throwback in the works for early 2021.
Also-also: Look for a complete makeover next season.
North Carolina
Although no official announcement has been made, SportsLogos.net’s Andrew Lind is reporting that the Tar Heels will have a new navy alternate uniform this season (additional info here):
First look at North Carolina’s new navy blue alternate uniform, which sources indicate will be unveiled in the coming weeks: pic.twitter.com/joMDAAFMMu
— Andrew Lind (@AndrewMLind) November 21, 2020
Virginia
Virginia athletics introduced a department-wide rebranding earlier this year, which means the hoops team has new uniforms (simple but snappy) and a new court design:
Those new unis tho#GoHoos— Virginia Men's Basketball (@UVAMensHoops) November 3, 2020
Fresh
#GoHoospic.twitter.com/m3zEWSUK5B
— Virginia Men's Basketball (@UVAMensHoops) September 1, 2020
AMERICA EAST
Albany
The Great Danes have switched outfitters this season, moving from Nike to Under Armour. As a result, they have a new brand identity and logo set and also a new set of uniforms:
Albany switching this year from Nike to Under Armour and adding new black alternate. Old versions on top, new on bottom. pic.twitter.com/Le9NhxBADx
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 22, 2020
AMERICAN ATHLETIC
Cincinnati
Nothing new this season for the Bearcats, but they’ll definitely have new uniforms next season — and a new uniform outfitter to boot — because Under Armour is ending its deal with the university four years early.
Temple
Temple athletics has switched outfitters, moving from Under Armour to Nike, so the Owls will definitely have new uniforms this season. No visuals yet — stay tuned.
UCF
No photos, but a team rep says the Knights’ court will now include a new sponsor/advertiser logo, for Orlando Health.
ATLANTIC 10
Duquesne
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Dukes will have a new set of blue uniforms this season, and will also have a new court design when moving into their new arena in early 2021.
George Washington
The Colonials are adding a Black Lives Matter emblem to their court this year. It’s positioned adjacent to the team’s bench on the upper-right corner of the floor:
Saint Louis
The Billikens have made slight adjustments to all four of their uniforms, although a team rep says the new threads haven’t arrived yet: “We might have new uniforms for our season opener on Nov. 25, or we may not!” If the new gear doesn’t arrive in time, they’ll stick with last year’s uniforms as a stopgap.
Per team spox, Saint Louis's new uniforms haven't arrived yet and it's not clear if they'll be ready in time for the Nov. 25th season opener.
For all uniforms, new designs on top, old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/M56FyiNQTQ— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 21, 2020
St. Bonaventure
The Bonnies have made the classic cop-out move of swapping the team name for the school name, and have also “upgraded” to the new Adidas tailoring template — the one that looks like it has a giant Adidas-sponsored gemstone at the base of the collar:
New home whites for St. Bonaventure. Old version on left, new version (which also provides good look at the Adidas tailoring template) on right. pic.twitter.com/Wp397kA6Xc
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 12, 2020
UMass
The school’s athletic director, Ryan Bamford, has promised that the Minutemen will have black alternate uniforms this season:
Ok, here’s the deal…while we didn’t meet the RT goal for alternate unis (sorry @tre_mitch33) I approve an adidas order for alternate black & maroon unis for next season. And, of course, we will make sure @UMassWBB has a choice of a new alternate uni combo as well.#Flagship
— Ryan Bamford (@UMassADBamford) May 7, 2020
ATLANTIC SUN
Jacksonville
Last season the Dolphins unveiled a sensational “modern throwback” uniform as a nod to the school’s 1969-70 squad, which made it all the way to the NCAA title game. The only problem with the throwback was that they wore it for just one game. Happily, they’re bringing it back for a few games this season, although they haven’t yet decided exactly when.
Best news of the day so far: Jacksonville's retro alternates (left) — worn for one game last season as a 50th-anniversary shout-out to the school's appearance in the 1970 national championship game (right) — will be back for a few games this season. Dates not yet finalized. pic.twitter.com/KWOqNH0Btq
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
BIG EAST
All Teams
All Big East teams will wear a “BLM” patch this season. Its design is based on the familiar Big East conference logo patch, which will still be on the jerseys as well.
𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐚𝐧'𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫.
We will wear these BLM patches this season, continuing the fight against social injustices and systemic racism. #BIGEAST pic.twitter.com/TDFdqrHSjm— BIG EAST Conference (@BIGEAST) October 28, 2020
Georgetown
The Hoyas are the rare team that look good in gray uniforms. This year the grays will feature the team name across the chest, instead of the school name:
New gray uniforms for Georgetown. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/KMtuKPoI3O
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Marquette
Marquette is going with somewhat clunky-feeling new chest script this year, along with a similarly awkward-seeming number font:
New gold uniforms for Marquette. Old version left, new on right.
Note "AL" memorial for Al McGuire has been moved from jersey to waistband.
Not shown: BLM patch, which will be added above jumpman maker's mark. pic.twitter.com/6Fmndxl6DV— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
New Marquette jersey leaked, how do we feel? @PaintTouches @CrackedSidewlks @AnonymousEagle @nathanmarzion pic.twitter.com/nCMnpzv05o
— ejb (@ejb1333) October 10, 2020
As noted in that first tweet, they’ve moved their permanent Al McGuire memorial from the jersey collar to the shorts, and will also be adding a Black Lives Matter patch.
In addition to the gold and navy versions shown above, the team’s wardrobe will also include white, black, powder blue and turquoise uniforms (the latter to be worn for Nike’s annual N7 promotion, to support Native American heritage).
Seton Hall
The Pirates are essentially transitioning from one cookie-cutter Under Armour template to another. The overall visual effect is largely the same as last season:
New uniforms for Seton Hall. Old versions on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/lcVcTFIXl8
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
UConn
The good news is that the Huskies are adding some nice trim to their collars and armholes. The bad news is that they’re adding a big, honking wordmark to their shorts:
New uniforms this year for UConn. New versions on top, old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/WXATPzUSeZ
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
Xavier
The Musketeers are replacing their dark-gray alternate uniform with a lighter shade of gray. The new design is similar to what the team wore up until the 2013-14 season, when the darker gray was introduced:
Xavier switching to lighter gray alternate uni this season. pic.twitter.com/1c3Fvov8UP
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
BIG SKY
Idaho
Big upgrade for the Vandals, who have one of the best-looking new sets of the year. Kudos to all involved.
New road uni for Idaho. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/pyUd6Um5zV
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
Montana
The Grizzlies are one of many schools wearing a social justice patch this season — but the only one whose patch is shaped like the great state of Montana (additional info here).
Montana State
“Montana State” is a lot of letters to crowd onto one line of a jersey, but the Bobcats are going that route with their new road and alternate uniforms:
New road and alternate uniforms for Montana State (with gray/silver alternate replacing gold alternate). New versions on top, old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/4qBu1eXbkV
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 20, 2020
Sacramento State
The Hornets are dialing back the gold trim on their home and road uniforms this year and are also adding a candy-striped pattern to their side panels:
New uniforms for Sacramento State. Old versions on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/P51U8JESrP
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 17, 2020
Weber State
It’s not often that you see arched lettering in italics. Weber State’s new road jersey is a good example of why:
New road uniforms for Weber State. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/4516B8jNqB
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 20, 2020
BIG SOUTH
Campbell
The Fighting Camels (one of college sports’ great team names!) have a new black uniform this season, along with a new court design:
The new black unis!
— Campbell Basketball (@GoCamelsMBB) November 18, 2020
New court design for Campbell. pic.twitter.com/YvDDFTWAeO
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
Radford
Minor changes this year for the Highlanders, who’ve made small adjustments to their side panels and shorts trim. In addition, they’re adding a new anti-racism jersey patch:
New uniforms for Radford. Old versions on left, new in center, and new anti-racism patch on right. pic.twitter.com/O5qJD6xOAw
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 17, 2020
BIG TEN
Maryland
No changes this year for the Terps, but a team spokesman says players will be selecting social justice phrases to wear on the back of their pregame shooting shirts.
Michigan State
Big changes on tap this year for the Spartans, most notably a very bold meander pattern that runs down one side of the uniform, creating an odd asymmetry:
New home whites for Michigan State. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/eSJ1iYK2FE
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Nebraska
Lots of changes for the Cornhuskers, who’ve eliminated the pinstripes on their home and road uniforms, adopted a bold “Huskers” script on their home whites, changed their alternates from red to black, toned down their shorts striping and added a social justice patch:
New home uniforms for Nebraska. Old version on left, new in center.
Social justice mark at right will be added as a patch. pic.twitter.com/LiHiRFnCpx— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 21, 2020
New road uniforms for Nebraska. Old version on left, new in center.
Social justice mark at right will be added as a patch. pic.twitter.com/ExBrJ60JYG— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 21, 2020
New alternate uniforms for Nebraska. Old version on left, new in center. Chest number, although not shown here, will be cream.
Social justice mark at right will be added as a patch. pic.twitter.com/oYJJbG0GFo— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 21, 2020
In addition, Nebraska will debut a new retro-inspired uniform at some point this season, probably around the turn of the new year, so watch for that.
Ohio State
Serious makeover for the Buckeyes, whose uniforms will have a lot more character this season (here’s some additional info and a photo gallery):
New uniforms for Ohio State. New versions on top, old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/m77EvpCC0T
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
OSU also has two new alternate designs in the hopper, so look for those to be unveiled at some point during the season.
Rutgers
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Scarlet Knights have two things in the works: “The first is a uniform patch to support the Black Lives Matter movement. It’s actually handful of different patches featuring sayings that our players came up with that were meaningful to them. The second is a new throwback uniform modeled after a previously worn jersey from the early 1980s.”
Wisconsin
All Wisconsin sports teams are supporting social justice this season by wearing a black “W” crest. No visuals yet of how it will look on the Badgers’ basketball uniforms.
BIG 12
Baylor
What’s better than a green collar? A green and yellow collar! It’s a small detail, but it packs a strong aesthetic punch this year for the Bears:
Baylor adding yellow accent to green collar on home uni this season. Old version on left, new on right. (h/t @p_evans99) pic.twitter.com/pyEsNDqXZK
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Kansas
The Jayhawks have been “upgraded” to Adidas’ latest tailoring template, which has an unusual collar design and puts the Adidas maker’s mark right in the center. Not a great look.
New uniforms (or at least a new tailoring template) for Kansas. New versions on top, old on bottom. (h/t @AndyJ0seph) pic.twitter.com/X1Xx87BQ04
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 11, 2020
Oklahoma
A team rep says the Sooners may add a memorial patch for for former head coach Billy Tubbs, who died earlier this month, but the plans for that hadn’t been finalized by press time.
TCU
The Horned Frogs are adding a social justice patch featuring a raised black fist and the hashtag #TogetherOn3, which is the school’s racial-unity campaign:
This season, we will wear #TogetherOn3 patches. Started by Dylan Arnette and Owen Aschieris, #TogetherOn3 is an initiative focused on bringing the TCU student body closer together. pic.twitter.com/NKXysS3fAA
— TCU Basketball (@TCUBasketball) October 20, 2020
Texas Tech
If you’re a big fan of sports facilities named after supermarkets, you’ll be glad to learn that Texas Tech’s arena name will continue to be an ad for a grocery chain at least through 2035.
BIG WEST
Cal State Bakersfield
The Roadrunners have moved from the WAC to the Big West, which means the conference logo patch on their jerseys will be changing. They’ve also added the Big West logo to their court design:
Our big, blue, beautiful court got some touch ups done for the big day! Check out the reveal of the @BigWestSports logo in the Icardo Center! pic.twitter.com/FLbzUwQml2
— CSU Bakersfield Athletics (@CSUBAthletics) July 1, 2020
A team rep says this season’s uniforms will also feature a social justice patch, “but we’re not prepared to share that just yet.”
Cal State Northridge
The Matadors have one of the more unusual school logos, and it’s showcased nicely on their new home whites. Not so sure about the more conventional type treatment on the new road jersey, though:
New uniforms this season for Cal State Northridge. New versions on top, old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/zP0qyq6L3T
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Hawaii
Minor adjustments for the Rainbow Warriors, who’ve tweaked their collar trim, armhole trim and side panels:
#HawaiiMBB with a slightly different look for 2021 – New uniforms (right) add tapa trim to sides and multi color collar #GoBows@HawaiiMBB@UnderArmour@UniWatch // https://t.co/SOdY37JnAf
— Rob DeMello (@RobDeMelloKHON) October 7, 2020
Long Beach State
The Beach (yes, that’s their team name) have a new shark mascot this year. His name is Elbee, as in “LB,” for “Long Beach” — get it?
The Beach welcomes its new mascot: Elbee!
A few facts about Elbee:Origins: Belmont Shore
Jersey Number: 49
Pronoun Preference: they/their/them
Activities Include: swimming, studying, sinking teeth into some healthy competition
Read more: https://t.co/QIGSOBOU9Zpic.twitter.com/42dvNtWzOI— Cal State Long Beach (@CSULB) August 17, 2020
UC San Diego
This is the Tritons’ first season as a Division I program, and they’re marking the occasion with a new court design (here’s some additional info and a photo gallery):
A 𝙗𝙤𝙡𝙙 new look for a new era @UCSanDiego!
Full video, photo galleryhttps://t.co/moTKHlI1Le#GoTritonspic.twitter.com/R71rhWk0kN
— UC San Diego Tritons (@UCSDtritons) September 16, 2020
UC Irvine
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Anteaters (one of the great team names in college sports) will have new road uniforms this season.
COLONIAL
James Madison
No uni changes this year for the Dukes, but they have a new arena, which of course means a new court design:
And while we at it, JMU also has a new practice gym. Here’s a time-lapse video of the floor installation:
When @JMUMBasketball and @JMUWBasketball want to get some shots up, they’ll have a great home for it!
The finishing touches on the Dukes’ new practice gym are in!#GoDukes pic.twitter.com/7WB45UOnzI— James Madison Athletics (@JMUSports) October 17, 2020
Towson
At press time, the Tigers were still waiting for the delivery of their new uniforms, but they’re still planning on having an updated look this season. They’ll also have a new design for their annual autism-awareness game in February.
UNC-Wilmington
Along with a few other changes, the Seahawks have changed to a crossover collar — a design element that your friendly uniform columnist has always found incredibly irksome because it always looks ever-so-slightly asymmetrical! Grrrrrr.
New home uni for UNC-Wilmington. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/hss4XWvQWX
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
CONFERENCE USA
Charlotte
Charlotte athletics underwent a department-wide rebranding earlier this year, which means the hoops team has new uniforms and a new court design:
New uniforms for Charlotte basketball, part of the school's university-wide design makeover. pic.twitter.com/HeaD74BwLG
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 11, 2020
New court coming soon
— Charlotte Men’s Basketball (@CharlotteMBB) June 23, 2020
Florida Atlantic
Big upgrade for the Owls’ home whites, which no longer look like a practice or high school design:
New home whites for FAU. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/DenSvKOwh9
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 20, 2020
Middle Tennessee State
Very straightforward look this season for the Blue Raiders. Here’s hoping they mostly stick with the white and blue designs and keep the drab gray alternates mostly under wraps.
New threads
— MT Basketball (@MT_MBB) November 9, 2020
Southern Miss
It’s not that common for a school to have two different white uniforms in its wardrobe, but that will be the situation this season for the Eagles:
Two white uniforms for Southern Miss this season. They're keeping last season's retro-styled design with the "Southern" script (left), which is a favorite of coach Jay Ladner, and also reviving the more contemporary design that was previously worn in 2018-19 (right). pic.twitter.com/tAX15lmGMZ
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 17, 2020
In addition, Southern Miss has a new court design, with a new lighting system to boot:
𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒕, 𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔
Explore the latest upgrades to Reed Green Coliseum.#RiseAndSoar | #SMTTTpic.twitter.com/JR7RIxY1Gu
— Southern Miss
(@USMGoldenEagles) August 20, 2020
UAB
When you have a fire-breathing dragon as your mascot, you may as well plaster it at center court, am I right? That’s what UAB is finally doing:
@UniWatch @PhilHecken
Basketball court update for UAB. old on the left, new on the right. pic.twitter.com/gbBzOKoKYD— Chicago Gump (@GriffinTSmith) September 10, 2020
HORIZON LEAGUE
Cleveland State
The Vikings have fixed their two biggest problems: the gray lettering on their home jersey, which was hard to read, and the gray numbering on their road jersey, which just looked bad. They’ve also added a new black alternate uniform:
New uniforms for Cleveland State. Old versions on top, new on bottom. pic.twitter.com/x4XNkmMgtJ
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Group shots show new Cleveland State black alternate uni. pic.twitter.com/He7SkqLM2O
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Green Bay
Interesting move by the Phoenix, whose new home whites feature green typography with dark-green inlining — green on green! Pretty cool Wisconsin-shaped logo on the back of the jersey, too:
New year, new drip
#GreenBayAllDaypic.twitter.com/8afxTE5c52
— Green Bay Basketball (@gbphoenixmbb) November 20, 2020
IUPUI
The school with Division I’s most awkward name (the full moniker is Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis) is adding a new throwback alternate uni this year:
Northern Kentucky
The Norse have finally lost those annoying contrast-colored shoulder straps, and have also made a few other incremental tweaks:
New uniforms for Northern Kentucky. Old versions on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/oATspO9E1m
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
MAAC
All Teams
This season’s MAAC schedule features lots of schools playing each other back-to-back in the same arena on Fridays and Saturdays. For example, Monmouth will play at Iona on Dec. 11 and again on Dec. 12. For these two-game series, the home team will wear white on Friday and the road team will wear white on Saturday. (Among other things, this will require the road team to pack two sets of uniforms, so spare a kind thought for the equipment managers, who’ll have that extra task this season.)
Canisius
The Golden Griffins have updated their golden uniforms with some snappy new trim:
New gold alternates for Canisius. Old version on left, new version (including BLM patch, which will appear on all of the school's uniforms this season) on right. pic.twitter.com/loYP1khmpO
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
As you can see on the right, the new version includes a BLM patch, which will be worn on all of the team’s jerseys this season.
Also notable: The new gold shorts include the school’s griffin logo — the mascot’s first appearance on the team’s uniforms since the 2016-17 season.
Iona
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Gaels will be adding a new gold alternate uniform this year. It will be the team’s first gold uni since 2005.
Marist
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Red Foxes (yes, they’re called the Red Foxes!) will wear “BLM” jersey patches this season, and will also have a “Black Lives Matter” decal on their court.
Monmouth
Bland but inoffensive redesign for the Hawks, who, like other MAAC schools, are also adding a BLM patch:
New uniforms for Monmouth. New versions on top (including new BLM patches), old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/OnJ9LSU9sV
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 20, 2020
Siena
No visuals yet, but the Saints will be wearing Black Lives Matter patches this season, as part of the MAAC’s “United for Justice” campaign. Coach Carmen Maciariello has been very active on that front.
In addition, Siena has a new alternate uniform that will likely debut in early December — stay tuned.
St. Peter’s
You’d think a team called the Peacocks would have a more dazzling color scheme than just blue and white. But even within their limited chromatic parameters, St. Peter’s has made an upgrade this year:
New uniforms for St. Peter's. Old versions on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/R9vilpBcKs
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 23, 2020
MEAC
Morgan State
The Bears have switched outfitters, moving from Adidas to Under Armour — which means, unfortunately, that they’ve been saddled with UA’s signature squared-off collar design:
Morgan State now with Under Armour. Old uni on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/UoDxbgnCRh
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Another change worth noting: One of Morgan State’s more unusual uni elements was to put the NOB (that’s “name on back,” kids) below the rear uni number, instead of above it. That will apparently be changing this season:
Glimpse from a teaser video shows that Morgan State NOBs will no longer be positioned below the uni number. Old version on left, new on right. (h/t @XIII_Mr_Undadog) pic.twitter.com/97KmMjjh37
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
MID-AMERICAN
Central Michigan
Because Michigan state outline has two primary pieces, so to speak — the Lower and Upper Peninsulas — it looks particularly striking on CMU’s new court design:
Psst… Check it out
The John G. Kulhavi Court in McGuirk Arena got a fresh new look@CMUMensBBall || @CMUWBBall || @CMUVolleyball || #PureMichiganpic.twitter.com/pdjA1dsqp4
— CMU Athletics (@CMUAthletics) July 9, 2020
Toledo
Holy Toledo! Very minor changes for the Rockets, who’ve changed their road chest lettering from gold to white and tinkered a bit with the trim and side panels:
New road uni for Toledo. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/pZ8CMjUTEC
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
MISSOURI VALLEY
Indiana State
Very strange detail on all three of the Sycamores’ new jerseys: Why is there so much space between “Indiana” and the chest number, and no space at all between the number and “State”? Come on, people — vertically center those numbers!
A new look this season#MarchOnpic.twitter.com/gBcIqcf8ce
— Sycamore Basketball (@IndStMBB) October 29, 2020
Loyola-Chicago
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Ramblers will have a new black alternate uni this season. In addition, all of their uniforms will promote social justice via an “Onward as One” patch.
Southern Illinois
Nothing new this year for the Salukis, but their in-house designs shared some interesting alternate court designs that were considered but not used:
.@Coachcstein, thanks for the shout-out on the Saluki Standards Podcast. Thought I'd share some of the Banterra Center court designs.
@SIU_Basketball // @SIU_WBasketballpic.twitter.com/JuGsxdCuOF
— Michael Black (@michael_blk) July 6, 2020
Valparaiso
The Crusaders have two new dark uniforms for this season — one brown and one dark gray:
Hard to tell from the lighting, but Valpo's two new uniforms this season are brown (left) and dark gray (right). pic.twitter.com/0RtLfbpcBj
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 19, 2020
MOUNTAIN WEST
Boise State
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Broncos will have a new throwback uniform this season “in one of the team’s primary colors” — so presumably either blue or orange. Stay tuned.
Nevada
A team rep says the Wolf Pack will have new uniforms this season, but they hadn’t yet arrived in time to be included in this article, so keep an eye out for them once the season begins.
Wyoming
The Cowboys have been offering tantalizing clues about their new look with a series of teaser tweets, but as of press time they hadn’t yet revealed the full designs:
New Era. New
Threads.
Stay Tuned… Part— Wyoming Cowboy Basketball (@wyo_mbb) November 20, 2020
New
Threads. That Gold
Stay Tuned… Part— Wyoming Cowboy Basketball (@wyo_mbb) November 21, 2020
New
Threads. Things you love to see
Stay Tuned… Part— Wyoming Cowboy Basketball (@wyo_mbb) November 22, 2020
NORTHEAST
Sacred Heart
Good move by the Pioneers, who are bringing back their home whites after wearing only gray and red last season:
New uniforms (including the restoration of home whites) for Sacred Heart. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/SFEPCoW6Qq
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
St. Francis (Pa.)
The Red Flash will have a new black alternate uniform this season to go along with their white, red, and gray designs. It will be worn for the season-opening game against Pitt on Nov. 25.
OHIO VALLEY
Morehead State
The good news is that the Eagles have dropped the cartoonish chest lettering. The bad news is that the new type treatment feels really stiff and plain:
New home uniforms for Morehead State. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/vpMs8Pdpmf
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
SIU-Edwardsville
Good moves by the Tigers, whose new home and road uniforms are both improvements over their predecessors:
New home whites for SIU-Edwardsville. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/WGTgp4M363
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
New road uni for SIU-Edwardsville. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/BqwTKI7PHo
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 21, 2020
Tennessee State
No visuals or details yet, but a team rep says the Tigers will add two new alternate uniforms at some point this season, probably during the conference season.
UT-Martin
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Skyhawks will likely have some sort of uniform memorial for head coach Anthony Stewart, who died earlier this month.
PAC-12
Arizona
No visuals yet, but the Wildcats reportedly have a memorial patch in the works for former coach Lute Olson, who died in August.
Arizona State
Black uniforms are almost a self-parody at this point, but it’s hard to argue with the Sun Devils’ new black alternate design, which is a beauty:
Washington State
Nothing new for the Cougars’ uniforms or court design, but a team rep says players will be issued T-shirts reading, “Equality,” which they can wear for pregame activities and/or while sitting on the bench if they choose.
PATRIOT LEAGUE
Army
Last season the Black Knights wore gold at home, instead of the more common white. This year they’re introducing a new white uniform as their primary home look, with the gold design relegated to alternate status:
New home whites for Army (left). Last season's home gold uni is now redesignated as an alternate (right). pic.twitter.com/vuvAeGaR9r
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 21, 2020
Colgate
The Raiders have modernized their home whites this season. They’re also the only team whose uniform model was wearing a mask:
New home whites for Colgate. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/iYqtlo9DHP
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 20, 2020
In addition, Colgate has a new set of logos and branding updates, which you can learn about here.
Holy Cross
The Crusaders have cut back on the white trim for their road uniform, and the shorts now have very prominent black panels:
New road uniforms for Holy Cross. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/3E0sVnTo9z
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 19, 2020
Loyola-Maryland
The Greyhouonds’ home court, Reitz Arena, has had a new floor installed — its first new surface since the building opened in 1984. Here’s the new floor design:
Navy
Nothing new this season for the Midshipmen, but they plan to wear their 1985-86 throwbacks — a shoutout to the Navy team that featured David Robinson and made it to the Elite Eight — for the season-opening game against George Washington on Nov. 25. A team rep says the throwbacks, which were first worn last season, will likely be worn for an upcoming game against Army as well.
Per team spox, Navy hoops will be wearing 1985-86 throwbacks (based on unis worn by the David Robinson squad that reached the Elite 8) for the season-opening game against GWU, and probably for a game against Army.
Throwbacks were first worn last season. pic.twitter.com/wqmu6E7qiI— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
SEC
All Teams
Players on all SEC teams, as well as all officials, will wear contact tracing devices throughout this season. The devices, which are about the size of watch face, can fitted into the players’ uniforms.
Alabama
Everyone loves time-lapse court-makeover videos, so check out this one for the Crimson Tide’s new floor:
A project that lasted a little over 2⃣ weeks and included numerous man hours told to you in 12,000 photos and 30 seconds.
Introducing our new floor at Coleman Coliseum#RollTide | #BlueCollarBasketballpic.twitter.com/PO0tYHbDTJ
— Alabama Men’s Basketball (@AlabamaMBB) July 9, 2020
Arkansas
One small but meaningful uniform change for Arkansas: They’re adding an “Equality” patch.
Also, if you get excited about new practice gear, the Razorbacks have you covered:
New practice gear details pic.twitter.com/HXWT7JXdQW
— Arkansas Razorbacks Basketball
(@RazorbackMBB) October 16, 2020
Florida
The Gators renamed their court for former coach Billy Donovan back in February. But since the new name became official in the middle of the season, the team could only add two small-ish decals of Donavan’s signature on the left side of the lane at both ends of the court. The offseason provided an opportunity to have the court resurfaced and painted more permanently, with a much more prominent treatment of Donovan’s signature. In addition, the “Florida Gators” lettering has moved from center court to inside the arcs, and the sidelines now have more of a wood-grain finish, rather than solid blue.
New floor design this year for Florida, with much more prominent Billy Donovan signature. Old version on top, new on bottom. pic.twitter.com/pNjhRKKgdf
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
Kentucky
No visuals yet, but a team rep says the Wildcats will introduce a new gray alternate at some point this season. It will have the same basic design as the team’s primary home and road uniforms — same lettering, same trim, same checkerboard side panels.
Meanwhile, Rupp Arena has been rebranded as Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center (really rolls right off the tongue, doesn’t it?). As a result, logos with the new branding — big, blue boxes that look as awkward as the new arena name sounds — have been placed over the old “Rupp Arena” logos on school’s court:
With Kentucky's Rupp Arena now officially known as Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center, temporary logos have been added to cover up the old arena name. New version on top, old on bottom.
Per team spox, expect a new court with more integrated branding within the next few seasons. pic.twitter.com/4qp9uaDwi1— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 20, 2020
The plan is for these cover-up logos to serve as temporary placeholders, with an entirely new court likely to be installed within the next few seasons.
It’s also worth noting that the arena’s name has become a point of controversy due to allegations of racism leveled at its namesake, former Kentucky coach Adolph Rupp. Too soon to say whether this will result in the arena’s name being changed, but some university staff members have called for that.
Mississippi State
The Bulldogs will be promoting social justice by wearing a “Stronger Together” patch on their uniforms this season (additional info here):
Per team spox, Mississippi State basketball will wear "Stronger Together" jersey patch this season. pic.twitter.com/rv0f5VboKb
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
Ole Miss
Ole Miss has added a lot of navy trim to its home whites. To this observer, it’s a downgrade — the old look was cleaner:
New home whites for Ole Miss. Old version on left, two views of new version on right.
The new waistband logo with the lines going through it represents the circle located in the center of campus. pic.twitter.com/g55txDztvt— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
The team’s red and navy uniforms have also been given that same basic design template:
Breaking out the 𝗡𝗘𝗪
&
jerseys for Pavilion Madness
6:30 PM CT
https://t.co/ysbqGiMzNUpic.twitter.com/H9lAIGc0aV
— Ole Miss Men’s Basketball (@OleMissMBB) November 11, 2020
In addition, a team rep says there will also be two new “special jerseys” debuting later in the year. Meanwhile, the gray alternates have been scrapped, which seems like addition by subtraction.
Tennessee
The Volunteers have a new orange throwback, and it’s a beauty. That noise you hear in the background is everyone saying, “They should make this their primary design!” Hard to disagree (additional info here):
— E.J. Anosike (@EAnosike55) October 27, 2020
Texas A&M
Very classic look for the Aggies this season — well, except for that charcoal-gray design:
Our clean look on a new wave
#GigEmpic.twitter.com/6eA0cMi97O
— Texas A&M Basketball (@aggiembk) November 20, 2020
SOUTHERN
All Teams
The Southern Conference is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2021 and is marking the occasion with a new centennial logo, which will be worn on players’ and officials’ uniforms during the conference’s championship tournament (additional info here):
Celebrating 1⃣0⃣0⃣ Years of 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 in 2021.
The Southern Conference has had 44 full-time members over its illustrious history.
Read the full release— Southern Conference (@SoConSports) November 19, 2020
SOUTHLAND
Houston Baptist
The Huskies are putting their own spin on the social justice patch trend this season. All of their jerseys will carry a “Love Your Brother” patch, with a Christian cross incorporated into the lettering:
In addition, arguably the greatest throwback in all of college hoops — Baptist’s “Hustlin’ Husky” design — will be back for one game this season, although the exact date hasn’t yet been determined. If you’re somehow unfamiliar with this uniform, it’s quite the sight to behold:
SUMMIT LEAGUE
Oral Roberts
While other schools are expanding their wardrobes, the Golden Eagles are trimming theirs back. They’ll wear only their white and navy primary designs this season — no more gold or turquoise alternates (the latter of which were part of Nike’s N7 Native American tribute collection). Expect an entire new uniform set next season.
Per team spox, Oral Roberts keeping things simple this season: They'll use their primary white and navy uniforms, but the golds and turquoise N7s will not be worn. Plan is for the entire set to be updated next year. pic.twitter.com/9KPRsAbAto
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 18, 2020
SUN BELT
Georgia Southern
Big overhaul for Southern’s home uniform, and very much for the better. Here’s the upgrade:
New home whites for Georgia Southern. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/tV6dT7ALnh
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 20, 2020
Back in late May, the Eagles prepared four new court designs and encouraged fans to vote on which one should be used this season. Here’s a video of the winning design being installed:
You voted
We listened
How long do you think it took for our new court to be completed?#HailSouthern | @GSAthletics_MBB | @GSAthletics_WBB | @GSAthletics_VBpic.twitter.com/l7KUZ8sm5n— Georgia Southern Athletics (@GSAthletics) July 27, 2020
Georgia State
No announced uni news for the Panthers, but it’s worth noting that they’ve begun construction of a new arena, which should be completed in time for the 2022-23 season.
Little Rock
Lots of changes this year for Little Rock, including bi-level chest lettering, a new side-panel pattern and — probably the thing most people will fixate on — the Nike logo being swapped out in favor of the Jordan logo.
Lots of changes for Little Rock, including new Jordan maker's mark. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/geeFVC1Kqn
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
Troy
No new uniforms this year for Troy, but they do have a new floor design, highlighted by their “T” logo at center court:
New court design this season for Troy. Detail of old version on top, new version on bottom. pic.twitter.com/L4JCOmQVX7
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
WAC
California Baptist
What’s worse than having a uniform where the lettering and the base fabric are the same color? Having two uniforms where the lettering and base fabric are the same color! That’s the unfortunate situation with the Lancers’ new set:
New uniforms for California Baptist. Old versions on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/ljuPO5QvFy
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 19, 2020
Chicago State
Rare that a team will have four uniforms and none of them are white, but that’s the case for the Cougars and their new uni set. They’ll wear gray at home and black on the road, plus a mix of navy and green alternates:
New uniforms for Chicago State: gray at home, black on road, and two alternates — navy (with Jordan logo) and green. pic.twitter.com/aQp4IwlFWo
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 14, 2020
UMKC
Big upgrade for the Kangaroos! The bi-level jersey lettering, the new gold outlining on the type, the simplified collar, the striped side panels, the awesome logo on the shorts — it all works.
New home whites for UMKC. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/aee7Ac2EVQ
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 12, 2020
The Roos will have new road uniforms as well, but photos weren’t available at press time.
WEST COAST
Gonzaga
The Zags have made some small adjustments to their look, the most interesting of which is the use of a new swirly typeface across the chest (additional photos and info here):
New uniforms for Gonzaga. New version on top, old on bottom. pic.twitter.com/6hV4XsslBA
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 10, 2020
The road blues
— Gonzaga Basketball (@ZagMBB) November 10, 2020
Loyola Marymount
No visuals yet, but a team rep says LMU will be unveiling a Black History Month-themed uniform that will be worn for select games in February.
Pepperdine
Very minor changes for the Waves’ road uniform, which now has an orange collar and new side panels (here’s a close-up of the “wavy” side panel pattern):
New road uniforms for Pepperdine. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/OPnNvWpBTg
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 17, 2020
Portland
The Pilots will be debuting a new gray/anthracite alternate uniform this season:
Also: While not shown in that photo, all of Portland’s jerseys this season will carry a “United as One” patch.
St. Mary’s
The Gaels are making the classic “change for the sake of change” adjustments to their home uniforms, replacing the team name with the school name on the chest and inverting the colors from navy outlined in orange to the other way around. There will also be a new road design this season, but photos aren’t yet available.
New home uniforms for St. Mary's. Old version on left, new on right. pic.twitter.com/RYwLg5tlxl
— Paul Lukas (@UniWatch) November 9, 2020
And there you have it. Did we miss anything? Yeah, probably. If so, you know what to do. Now let’s get set for tip-off!
Paul Lukas will have his annual NBA and NHL season previews shortly before those leagues begin their new seasons. If you like this article, you’ll probably like his Uni Watch Blog, plus you can follow him on Twitter and Facebook, and sign up for his mailing list so you won’t miss any of his future InsideHook columns. Want to learn about his Uni Watch Membership Program, check out his Uni Watch merchandise, or just ask him a question? Contact him here.
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The article The 2020 Uni Watch College Basketball Season Preview by Paul Lukas was originally published on InsideHook.