FIBA Basketball Uniform Rules

FIBA, the International Basketball Federation, is the world's governing body for basketball. It also serves as the rules maker and enforcer, establishes the specifications for facilities and equipment, and oversees all other regulations for Olympic, World Championships and other international competition. This includes rules for team uniforms: jersey number, apparel. and other equipment during FIBA competition.

Shirts and Shorts

FIBA uniform rules require shirts of the same color on front and back. Players must tuck their shirts in the shorts. Shorts also should be the same color on the front and back but can be different a different color than the jersey. Each player should wear the same socks as the rest of the team.

Numbers

Each player should have a number on the front and back of the jersey that contrasts in color to the uniform. The numbers should be at least 20 centimeters high on the back and 10 centimeters on the front. Each number should be two centimeters wide. Teams are allowed to use numbers 4 to 15. National federations have the autonomy to expand to use all double digit numbers. Players on the same team are not allowed to wear the same number. The team logo should be at least five centimeters from the numbers.

Jerseys

Teams will provide players with two jerseys. One jersey is light-colored or white and used for home games and the second is a dark color for away games. The exception to this rule is if both teams agree to interchange their shirts.

Prohibited equipment

According to FIBA rules, players should wear equipment appropriate for the game. This equipment can't increase the player's height or reach. Players also are not allowed to wear braces made up of plastic or hard substance on their hand, wrist, elbow, or forearm that could cause injury to an opponent. Objects that could cut an opposing player are also prohibited. Headgear such as hats, jewelry and hair accessories are prohibited.

Protective Equipment

Padded shoulder, thigh or lower leg equipment is allowed to use as protective equipment. Compressive sleeves and stockings are allowed below knee if it's the same color as the player's uniform. Knee braces and mouth guards are also allowed. Eye glasses that don't pose risk to opposing players are allowed, such as plastic goggles.