In the long and colorful history of NBA jerseys, few editions are as iconic — or as mysterious to casual fans — as the “Bubble Jerseys.” Released and worn during one of the most unforgettable chapters in basketball history, these jerseys have become a collector’s gem and a symbol of resilience, creativity, and unity in sport. But what exactly are Bubble Jerseys, and why are they so sought after today?
Let’s take a closer look.
The Origin of the Bubble Jerseys
To understand bubble jerseys, you have to rewind to 2020, when the world — including professional sports — came to a screeching halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The NBA suspended its 2019-2020 season in March 2020. With uncertainty surrounding public events and health protocols, the league made an unprecedented decision to resume the season in a "bubble" environment at Walt Disney World’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. This controlled space became known simply as “The Bubble.”
From July to October 2020, 22 teams lived, trained, and competed inside this bubble — without fans in the stands in order to safely complete the season and crown a champion.
But the bubble was more than a logistical feat. It became a platform for social justice, unity, and player expression. And one of the most visible forms of that expression? The Bubble Jerseys.
What Makes Bubble Jerseys Unique?
While the physical cut and quality of the jerseys worn in the bubble remained consistent with the NBA’s usual standards (Nike was the official uniform supplier with pro cut still using Vaporknit), the messaging on the back of many jerseys is what made them truly historic.
During the restart, players were allowed to replace their last names with social justice messages. Some of the most common examples included:
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“Black Lives Matter”
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“Equality”
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“Say Their Names”
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“How Many More”
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“Freedom”
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“Respect Us”
This initiative was part of a league-wide effort, in collaboration with the NBA Players Association (NBPA), to support the movement against racial injustice and police brutality following the killing of George Floyd.
Some players kept their names (e.g, Lebron James and Nikola Jokic decided to not put a message on their jerseys), while others fully embraced the moment. The Bubble Jersey became a canvas of protest and empowerment, etched forever into the league’s visual and cultural memory.
Memorable Moments in Bubble Jerseys
The bubble season was filled with dramatic storylines: the rise of young stars like Jamal Murray and Tyler Herro, the dominance of the Lakers' LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and emotional post-game interviews that centered just as much around civil rights as they did stats.
When the Los Angeles Lakers clinched their 17th NBA Championship inside the bubble, it was more than a basketball victory — it was a tribute to the late Kobe Bryant, a testament to mental toughness, and a symbol of pushing forward during impossible times.
Players hoisted the trophy while wearing those powerful messages on their backs — jerseys that now hold deep emotional and historical value.
Why Collectors Love Bubble Jerseys
For jersey collectors, bubble jerseys represent:
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A limited edition piece of history – These were only worn during a short, iconic time.
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Powerful messaging – They’re one of the few jerseys in NBA history where players’ names were swapped out for social statements.
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Storytelling through stitching – Each jersey speaks to a unique moment in time — who wore it, what message they chose, and what that game represented.
Just like game-worn jerseys from championship years, bubble jerseys are highly desirable among collectors. Especially those with authentic patches, team-specific messages, or provenance (e.g., being worn by a star player during a pivotal moment in the bubble).
Are Bubble Jerseys Still Available?
Bubble jerseys are never made for retail. The only way to get one is either through Game-worn auctions or customizing from blanks. Because of their rarity and historical significance, authentic bubble jerseys are hard to come by today — and when they pop up on auction or resale sites, they often command a premium.
At Lamb Jersey, we’re constantly searching for these elusive pieces. Whether you’re looking for a Jimmy Butler “Equality” jersey, a Lakers bubble edition, or a lesser-known team with a powerful message, our collection rotates regularly with carefully sourced and verified jerseys.
Keep an eye out — if one enters our vault, it won’t stay long.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Jersey
Bubble jerseys are more than limited-edition uniforms. They’re historical artifacts from a one-of-a-kind NBA season. They’re reminders of what athletes stood for, how the league adapted, and how sport remained a unifying force in the most divided of times.
Whether you wear it, frame it, or simply admire it — owning a bubble jersey is owning a piece of basketball history.
Explore rare jerseys and other collector pieces at lambstudio.shop
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