What Kind of Gear Do You Wear Courtside at an NBA Game?

Courtside seats at an NBA game offer a close-up view of the action and strategy that takes place in a professional basketball game. Sitting that close to the action, you can hear every grunt, shoe squeak and even the occasional curse word. Depending on the location of the game, it can get you up close and personal with movie stars, musicians, politicians and star athletes from other sports. It can also get you on camera during a local, regional or national television telecast of the game. Dressing appropriately for sitting courtside can be done several different ways, including dressing in your team's colors and clothing, dressing casually or dressing in a professional manner.

Dress Like You're a Fan

Much of how you dress for an NBA game depends on with whom you are attending the game. For example, if you are going with some of your close friends or a family member, you can show your support for the team by dressing in clothes that represent the team. Wearing T-shirts, jerseys, hats or jackets with the team's logo show how much of a fan of the team you are and will be appreciated by your fellow fans and the team's public relations department, too. If you are a fan of the team that the home team is playing, it is perfectly fine to dress in their trademarked apparel, too.

Dress Casually

If you have plans immediately after the game to go out to dinner or see a show, dressing casually is a common practice for NBA courtside seats. Denim jeans, khaki pants, button-down shirts and polo-style shirts are acceptable choices. Since you may end up on camera, you just want to make sure that your clothes are clean and free of any noticeable stains. Avoid black-soled or hard-soled shoes, as they may scuff the court if you have to walk across it during halftime or at the end of the game.

Dress Professionally

If you are coming straight from the office or are using these expensive seats to entertain a business client, wearing professional attire is acceptable, too. Sports jackets and ties, three-piece suits, even a tuxedo would not be out of place courtside at an NBA game. Keep in mind that it is usually pretty warm around the court area, so you may need a place to put your jacket or suit coat -- such as the seat back -- if you get too hot.

Dress to Get Noticed

If you want to guarantee getting on screen for the live television broadcast, dress "memorably." Keep it tasteful, so no T-shirts with expletives or ill-fitting clothes that could cause a clothing "malfunction." Consider wearing colorful clothing and wigs, big sunglasses or even dressing in an outfit, like you were going to a costume party. Be vocal in your support of the team, dance crazily, within reason, and you might be able to find yourself on the 11 o'clock news. Just keep the crazy antics respectful and don't interfere with the play of the game.