Though the Allen Iverson-led infusion of hip hop into the NBA helped the league find a post-Michael Jordan identity, out of touch suits attributed a misguided perception that the NBA was being overtaken by "thugs" to street style. Particularly in wake of the backlash felt from the Pacers/Pistons brawl in 2004. Commissioner David Stern's response was to sign off on a league-wide dress code, which called for players to dress in business casual attire pre and post-game or face a fine.
While the new system of dress was required for all players, it was essentially the Allen Iverson rule. After all, it was his signature look that was influencing the style of the incoming group of players. Following the announcement of the dress code, Iverson was quoted as saying, "The dress code is not who I am and doesn’t allow me to express myself."
As Reebok continues to celebrate 20 years of Iverson's Question sneaker, they'll next tell the story of the dress code. This colorway features varying materials, such as denim, suede, mesh and leather, likely representing the baggy jeans, Timberland boots and leather accessories that were often part of Iverson's day-to-day looks. A banned logo on the heels drives the theme home.
The "Dress Code" Question releases next Friday, Nov. 4, and those with smaller feet can grab the youth version at Sneaker Politics now.
Reebok Question "Dress Code"
Release Date: 11/04/16
Color: Denim/Wheat-Brown
Style #: AR0252
Price: $140
