For the first time this postseason, the Cleveland Cavaliers debuted sleeved jerseys. This fashion choice was decided by LeBron James for Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
LeBron James made call to wear black sleeved jerseys, I'm told. J.R. Smith says that jersey symbolizes pride. #Cavs were prideful tonight.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) June 14, 2016
James famously ripped the same black sleeved jersey during a game earlier this season but later said that was more out of frustration with his play, not because of the tightness of the sleeve.
"I don't know, it might be mental, man," James said. "It's OK. The jerseys are nice. We love the jerseys. The black looks great. It's been awhile since this franchise has worn black. So it's great to be out there and wear those uniforms. I was in my own way. I was frustrated with my shot, I couldn't make a bucket, so like I said, I had to take it out on something."
Interestingly enough, James has actually played well while wearing sleeved jerseys this season. According to SI's Kenny Ducey, James averaged 29.2 points on 54.4 percent shooting, 5.8 rebounds and 7.6 rebounds in five games while wearing a sleeved jersey this season. All five of those games were also Cavs wins.
James continued his dominance while wearing a sleeved jersey against the Warriors on Monday, finishing with 41 points on 53.3 shooting, 16 rebounds, seven assists, three steals and three blocks in Cleveland's 112-97 win. Perhaps sleeved jersey aren't actually that bad. At least for LeBron, that is.
