During a recent episode of ESPN First Take, Stephen A. Smith took aim at LeBron James and other NBA players for their casual approach to off-court fashion, calling for changes to the league’s dress code. Smith highlighted the need for players to improve their appearance outside of games, emphasizing the disconnect between their high earnings and relaxed style choices. This criticism surfaced shortly after the Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James, faced the Boston Celtics in one of the NBA’s marquee matchups.
Smith Calls for a Return to a More Formal Dress Code
Stephen A. Smith suggested that the NBA’s current off-court dress culture falls short of expectations, especially given the financial success of its stars. He bluntly expressed his frustration:
“All that damn money LeBron and them making, you can’t dress better than that? I’m so happy Pat Riley brought that up. He letting everybody know there should be a dress code, at least for the coaches. You damn right, all this money y’all make, dressing like y’all shopping at Target or something. They need to get it together.”
?Stephen A. Smith, NBA Analyst
Smith’s comments reflect his belief that players should embrace a more polished and respectful appearance as representatives of the league. This view echoes former Miami Heat coach Pat Riley’s remarks advocating for a stricter dress code, particularly for coaches on the sidelines. Despite this, many coaches currently prefer team-issued athletic gear over traditional suits, a policy supported by the NBA since 2020.
Historical Context: From Stern’s Business Attire Mandate to Today’s Relaxed Standards
The controversy surrounding NBA fashion is not new. In the 1980s and 1990s, stars like Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson routinely wore suits to games, adhering to standards set by then-Commissioner David Stern. However, the cultural shift began when Allen Iverson entered the league and popularized wearing streetwear and personal styles instead of formal clothing. This shift led Stern to implement a strict dress code in 2005 requiring players to wear business casual attire when possible.
After Adam Silver became Commissioner in 2014, the league relaxed these rules, allowing players more freedom in their fashion choices to reflect personality and creativity. Players such as Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have since used off-court appearances to make fashion statements, a trend that has been widely embraced.
Ongoing Debate Over Dress Code Enforcement and Personal Expression
While the current relaxed dress code fosters individuality and self-expression, critics like Stephen A. Smith argue it undermines the league’s public image. Smith’s remarks underline a tension between maintaining professionalism and allowing personal comfort. Though players are free to wear casual clothing such as shirts and sweats, Smith suggests this freedom has been overused to the league’s detriment.
The disagreement extends to league leadership and coaching staff, with figures like Pat Riley pushing for renewed dress code guidelines, while many coaches prefer the flexibility of team athletic wear. Regardless, Smith’s statements highlight ongoing calls for a dress code that balances respectability with modern style in the NBA.
Looking Ahead: Potential Impact on NBA Culture and Policies
Stephen A. Smith’s comments may reignite discussions about the NBA’s off-court attire standards, prompting league officials to reconsider current regulations. Any shifts in dress code policies could influence player branding, fan perceptions, and professional norms within the league. However, balancing individual expression against a polished image remains a complex challenge for the NBA moving forward.
Stephen A. Smith calls out LeBron and other players for not dressing better for games
"All that damn money LeBron and them making, you can’t dress better than that?"
(🎥 @FirstTake / h/t @awfulannouncing ) pic.twitter.com/BdwyGT9sm1
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 23, 2026
Stephen A. Smith calls out LeBron and other players for not dressing better for games
"All that damn money LeBron and them making, you can’t dress better than that?"
(🎥 @FirstTake / h/t @awfulannouncing ) pic.twitter.com/BdwyGT9sm1
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 23, 2026
