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iamdaviinci

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Everything posted by iamdaviinci

  1. It's a custom template, but that's being generous. It's actually four separate files in AI (jersey front, jersey back, shorts front, shorts back), each with several dozen layers. Once finished, those four files get converted and dropped into a fifth file in PS to produce the final presentation and clip the detail images. It's a terribly inefficient process, and I've always wanted to provide a single, polished template file, but realistically I don't think I'll get around to it any time soon.
  2. Next up is a City Edition concept for the Los Angeles Lakers. After completing the above Suns Statement Edition concept, I wanted to further explore tonal color palettes. Some of the promotional graphics for HBO's now-cancelled series "Winning Time" got me thinking about how the Lakers have never worn a uniform in the primary shade of purple (#9063CD, per TruColor) their logo used from 1976 through 1999. This lavender-esque color pairs well with both their traditional gold (#FCC72C, per TruColor) and their brand new shade of darker purple (#330072, per TruColor). With that color palette in mind, I wanted the design to focus on the several successful eras of Lakers basketball under the Buss family. The base color establishes a captivating-yet-vintage feel as a nod to the Showtime era....the neck/shoulder/side taping and paneling are derived from the Shaq/Kobe era as well as the Kobe/Pau era....the wordmarks and numbers are primarily pulled from the current LeBron/AD era....and the belt buckle logo is evocative of the franchise's iconic championship banners. I wanted to include a subtle tonal pattern within the side paneling - I worked with stars, disco ball tiling, palm leaves, etc. - but ultimately scrapped it because nothing looked or felt quite right for the Lakers. Once again, the hidden contents contain additional images of the details. LOS ANGELES LAKERS x NIKE City Edition Concept
  3. Appreciate the kind words mate! I'm very into tonal color palettes right now -- I tried it (albeit unsuccessfully) for your Celtics, but now I'm on to a different team about which you're probably a bit less excited As for applying reflective properties to the NOB, I actually considered it for every silver application (Jumpman logos, sponsorship patch, laundry tag slogan, belt buckle logo, NOB). I'm not sure it could realistically be done well across so many different materials, so I left it at just the most essential element (chest graphic). You make a fair point re: an orange version....I hadn't considered that! I think it would lose a bit of its boldness when translated to white and purple Association and Icon Editions, respectively, but perhaps an orange Earned Edition could work.
  4. Another sharp design! Colors and placement creates perfect contrast, the wordmark and trim details are iconic, and it all still looks very much like a Knicks uniform. Really curious about that upcoming Dallas/2000s R&B design!
  5. Starting a single thread for all of my NBA concepts moving forward. Just finished the project shared below and don't currently have anything else in the works, but will update the thread to add each new project as it's completed. Always open to discussing suggestions, so please feel free to post them in the replies here or send a message. Genuinely interested in any and all feedback on these designs, especially constructive criticisms. Like to know why folks think certain ideas and/or elements do or don't "work." Extremely self-critical throughout the creative process, so please do not hesitate to challenge anything or everything. Thanks in advance! First up is a Statement Edition concept for the Phoenix Suns. Their new Association/Icon Editions have a few aggravating design flaws, but still look pretty decent from a high level. This concept attempts to reconcile some of the issues with composition, while also introducing a bold color palette and "total solar eclipse" theme. The second image illustrates the reflective properties of the silver within the chest graphic, and the hidden contents contain additional images of the details. (Side note: KD should've worn #7 for the Suns.) PHOENIX SUNS x JORDAN BRAND Statement Edition Concept
  6. Awesome stuff! Everything from the logos to the uniforms to the full presentation is really well done. You chose a sharp color palette, and you used it very well across the entire brand. I think the Reverse Retro jersey and logo #4 are my personal favorites, but I'm a fan of everything you've done here!
  7. You're 2/2 so far, and I'm looking forward to seeing the ones coming up next -- especially that Sonics one! I think there are a lot of ways NBA x music jerseys can lean too far into one side or the other, but you've done a really nice job of finding a balance between the two. A few more potential ideas, though I'm sure some have been done before... Houston Rockets - early '00s rap Memphis Grizzlies - Elvis New Orleans Pelicans - history of jazz, perhaps someone/something more specific Detroit Pistons - '60s Motown
  8. This is becoming the problem with City Edition more and more often -- NBA uniforms just aren't the appropriate medium for these ideas. What started out as a way to extend a team's brand has, in many cases, devolved into an identity crisis and a new disjointed/irrelevant uniform every year. I love seeing new designs, and I understand this mechanism exists almost exclusively to generate revenue, but it feels like it's time to refocus -- retire City Edition, introduce a fresh design prompt, and continue the process in a new direction.
  9. My theory is that this mess at least partially stems from there being no other possible option for this. If you insist on putting a wordmark over a purple background with orange/yellow sunrays, it must be white....to appropriately balance that part of the composition, the ball must be white....to preserve balance throughout the uniform as a whole (including asymmetrical shorts), the front number must be centered....to establish continuity across Association and Icon Editions, these ideas must be applied to white and purple bases. I don't particularly like the end result, but I can at least follow that design logic. I'm on board with that. As this discussion has progressed, I've realized more and more that brand continuity and fundamental design just aren't compatible within this uniform set. I think both of those things are essential to any good uniform set, but here each moving piece creates a domino effect that inevitably compromises one or the other.
  10. Fair enough! Now I'm curious -- do you feel the same when we apply the same ideas to the Association Edition? I often struggle to "balance" Association and Icon Edition design concepts when they aren't clear reciprocals of one another. Examining each Option 2 (orange ball), the purple Icon feels unbalanced to me due to the white wordmark being offset against the white numbering....but the white Association feels unbalanced to me due to the white wordmark being offset in isolation as the lone focal point of the composition. Curious to see some takes on this, but fully expecting to realize my design-fueled OCD is even more extreme than I imagined
  11. This is a case where optical alignment is more appropriate than exact alignment. With the wordmark fixed inside the full chest graphic, I agree it wouldn't make sense to center the wordmark exactly -- the ball/sun is already truncated as is, and this would just about eliminate it altogether. But that being said, an off-center white wordmark followed by an orange ball would create an unbalanced composition given the centered numbering. It isn't as obvious with Booker's #1, but gets worse with Beal's #3 and worse again with KD's #35. Ignoring the preferred color of the ball for a second, which of the following three options feels most balanced? I'd argue Option 1, as the full composition appears balanced in terms of both color and density. Option 2 lacks color balance for the reason mentioned above, while Option 3 corrects that issue only to make one side significantly more dense than the other. I'll take the fundamentally sound design choice over the familiar/traditional/literal/etc. ones every single time.
  12. I think these points all allude to deeper issues across the brand as a whole, including logos and uniforms. They've created a drastic inconsistency between the chest graphic on the jersey and the primary logo on the belt buckle of the shorts. The white ball is a necessary evil to help balance an off-center wordmark....but the orange ball is a time-honored tradition that remains their primary logo. I really think they could've alleviated a lot of the perceived issues with this set had they picked a single look - white or orange - to establish one coherent vision for the brand.
  13. I won't defend the white sun as a great design choice by any means, but it feels like a lot of folks are overthinking it. Bulls aren't red, Hornets aren't teal, Bucks aren't green, etc. Team mascots don't have to be literal to work, and they rarely are. I also think the white sun is an odd point of contention when there are many other, more egregious and fundamental flaws with the uniform design (distracting wordmark, disjointed front number, poor spacing on jersey, lazy design on shorts).
  14. This feels like a good start toward fixing the Kings' current identity! As I see it, their two biggest issues are poor wordmarks and overuse of gray, both of which are resolved here. It was hinted at during a recent playoff game they may reintroduce a script 'Kings' wordmark, which would obviously be a hit/upgrade if executed even just halfway decently. Redistributing gray also goes a long way, especially on the Association Edition. Purple clearly belongs at the top of their color hierarchy, and it's good to see that reflected here. I also love the "Beam Team" City Edition -- I experimented with a similar idea a while back, and I think it creates a nice connection between the current excitement and the team's history. As for potential improvements, I think there are a few things I'd encourage you to explore: 1) Paneling - The asymmetrical paneling only on one shorts leg never made sense to me, as it looks like an afterthought. You fixed the shape/perspective of it, though, which made it even a more of an eyesore in the '90s. I think asymmetrical looks can look nice, like their current Statement Edition, so perhaps something a bit more cohesive could help. 2) Shorts Logo - It's a small nitpick, but the lion head logo looking backward feels disoriented. I wish it didn't lose the subtle 'S' curve when reflected, but I'd consider using the primary logo in that particular application. 3) Statement Edition - I'm really curious how this would function on-court. The Heat's "Vice Wave" City Edition is the closest comparison, but it was a disaster with light blue transitioning to pink. These colors are visually much closer to one another, but even more different in terms of values. I wonder how it might look if purple and gray were swapped? All in all, definitely a step forward -- looking forward to seeing more of this series, the boards need more NBA content!
  15. Really like this look for them! The helmet looks sharper than ever, the shoulder striping translates perfectly to the jersey template, and the red alternate feels like a proper extension of the brand. My only question mark is the use of silver vs. white in some spots, but I can't quite tell due to the lighting. Awesome work so far, though, and I'll be looking forward to seeing these concepts if you move them over to a different template!
  16. Really excited to see this series return! I still recall the original one from six years ago, and it was fun revisiting it again just now. In my personal opinion, this is just an all-around excellent uniform design. It fits in seamlessly alongside their other looks, but includes subtle twists to connect with the city in which they're located and extend their brand. I think there are a lot of ways for a uniform like this to go wrong - see UCF's "Space City" and "Citronauts" uniforms for both basketball and football - but you've managed to strike a perfect balance. And on top of that, the presentation is top-notch. I'll be (im)patiently waiting to see what's next!
  17. Really like these updates -- the blackletter B and bridge/shield logo are both outstanding! The black/white/yellow color palette is intriguing, as yellow worked nicely on the Biggie fashion jerseys. I think it ultimately depends on how it could be used across uniforms, apparel, etc. For the primary mark, I'm curious about the perspective of the rim. It's as if we're looking downward at it, which in turn makes the lower arc of the 'NETS' wordmark a bit awkward. I wonder if flipping the perspective - so we're looking upward at it, similar to the '90s/'00s logo - could help, as it would then make for a more natural 'NETS' wordmark that could be peeled for use on uniforms, apparel, etc. I suppose it may then mess with the bottom ball/net, though. Really impressed by the progress so far, and can't wait to see more!
  18. I'm a big fan of the Nets' uniforms -- had their main (Association/Icon) looks grown up with and succeeded alongside the Lakers' and Celtics', I think they'd be seen as similarly timeless. I also think they've had some of the best alternate uniforms throughout the current Nike era. However, that being said, I think their logos leave a lot to be desired -- they're bland, uninspired, and lacking character unique to Brooklyn as a borough and the Nets as a franchise. I really like your initial work here! It retains the straightforwardness of their current marks, but adds distinct layers that make it something they and only they could have. One thing that may be worth exploring is how to best use each of the elements you've selected. While the relevance of each element is clear, it feels a bit disjointed and overwhelming when combined to form a single mark. Perhaps the shield and Brooklyn bridge could be its own mark? The colors and shapes look really clean, and I really think it could stand out on its own as a secondary mark. The halo/rim and a more prominent basketball - with or without the shield - could then be the primary mark. I'm not well-versed in crafting logos, so definitely take my opinion with a large grain of salt. Hopefully this helps, though, and I'll be looking forward to seeing how this develops!
  19. Really appreciate everyone who has followed this project and offered feedback along the way! I'm grateful for the support, and always open to constructive criticism that could further improve any design(s). To wrap things up, here's a full recap of all sixteen uniform concepts:
  20. Really appreciate the kind words! I know Mardi Gras is completely over the top, but I think it's really tough to translate that garishness to a uniform in an appealing way. Happy to hear this works! Thanks a lot for the feedback! As the Bucks continue to cycle through uniforms in their current color palette, I get more and more ready for them to turn the page and bring back the Irish rainbow...
  21. BROOKLYN NETS The Nets’ have had my favorite identity in the League over the past several seasons. It’s clean and coherent, but with subtle and relevant details that keep it interesting. In a lot of ways, I think their Association and Icon Editions could prove to be timeless, but I also really enjoy how fun and unique their alternate looks are. This one puts a Brooklyn spin on the early ‘90s tie dye print alternate, going gray/silver with black and white accents. The signature herringbone pattern is included in the side trim as a common thread between eras. NEW ORLEANS PELICANS I haven’t liked most of the Pelicans’ Mardi Gras uniforms over the years – they’ve either been too over the top or too bland, never finding the right mix. I think a larger application of the colors can go a long way, but a relevant detail is also needed to add some excitement. This concept builds on their 2021/22 City Edition, adding an abundance of purple, yellow, and green along with beaded collar trim embellishments to complete the look.
  22. MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES I don’t mind the Timberwolves’ current set of uniforms, but I also don’t love them. I think the issue lies in that they’re fine basketball uniforms, but not great Timberwolves uniforms. Their '90s look set an incredibly high standard, but even with changing times and trends I think it can offer some insight into creating an improved look. Last year’s City Edition established an excellent foundation with the front-to-back wolf pattern and tree trim, and their new Statement Edition introduced an unexpectedly nice “TIMBERWOLVES” wordmark. Combining these elements with neutral tones – grays, silver, black – and a pop of bright green makes for a new and exciting look that feels unique to the Timberwolves. PHOENIX SUNS The Suns have an excellent color palette, and they’ve made excellent use of it in recent years with their instant classic “The Valley” City Edition as well as their new Statement Edition. If done right, I think there’s still room for additional experimentation. The organization honors their city’s/state’s Hispanic heritage in a number of ways, including their first three City Edition uniforms. Here, we combine the Suns’ new Statement Edition look with a serape print pattern (similar to the Spurs’ new Statement Edition) along with a translated version of their “The Valley” wordmark.
  23. Appreciate the kind words! The darker green definitely pushes it closer to Bucks territory, especially considering how much they've also embraced black in recent years. I had originally tried using the Celtics' traditional green for this concept, but something about it just looked/felt off....might just be that my eyes were conditioned to the darker green from their actual City Edition, though. I'd love to see them wear something like this if Earned Edition happens this season, but none of the folks in the know have dropped any hints and Locker Vision hasn't made any acknowledgment. I'd bet against it, unfortunately.
  24. BOSTON CELTICS I really like the Celtics’ City Edition tribute to Bill Russell – it’s just a great looking uniform, and I think it properly navigates the boundary between their history and a fresh take on it. There isn’t much I’d change about it, but I like the idea of flipping the base and paneling. It allows for a larger application of the subtle black parquet pattern, limits the areas of emerald green, and increases the contrast of the gold. MILWAUKEE BUCKS The Bucks’ usage of blue has always felt forced ever since they unveiled their current identity. I can appreciate the story it tells, but relevance alone don’t necessarily make for good design. Blue looks out of place with the other colors, and it doesn’t make sense in the context of the Bucks’ historical identity. Blue aside, though, I really like their new City Edition – it fits well within their current brand while also adding a new and meaningful dimension. To help connect the city of Milwaukee and the team that is the Bucks, I’ve changed the color palette to focus on black with the beloved Irish rainbow. I think a lot of City Edition looks over the years could benefit from more common threads tying new ideas back to the team's history.
  25. Thanks a lot! I definitely agree with you re: the MEM mark. It felt a bit too redundant on the updated version, but I'd really like to see them use it for more than just a belt buckle logo. Awesome -- really appreciate your help in improving this concept!
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