New NBA Connect Jerseys: Cop or Drop?

The 2017-2018 season marks the first year of Nike’s uniform contract with the NBA. In order to make their new uniforms more attractive to consumers, Nike has added a NFC chip that allows buyers to subscribe to exclusive app-based content. This content definitely adds value to the consumer, but at what cost?

The first problem I’ve seen with the connect uniforms is their ability to connect. So, if you’re planning on using the NFC feature, double check your device’s capabilities.

The second problem is durability. Three days into the regular NBA season and Nike’s new uniforms are already wearing out. In fact, they we wearing out before this season even started.

Photo by Robert Laberge/Getty Images

Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

The third problem is the app itself. Is the exclusive content something I can’t find anywhere else on the internet? Is the app just a giant advertisement?

Regardless of these problems, Nike has created something that has definitely disrupted the market and will most likely change the way we experience sports in the future. These new jerseys are essentially the same price as previous adidas jerseys, and they do add value to the users experience.