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Charlotte Hornets: Ranking the best jerseys in team history

By Evan Birchmore

CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 17: A detailed view of the jersey worn by Malik Monk #1 of the Charlotte Hornets during their game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center on October 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - OCTOBER 17: A detailed view of the jersey worn by Malik Monk #1 of the Charlotte Hornets during their game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center on October 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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The start of a new season in the NBA always raises questions for teams and fans alike. How will new additions to the roster perform? Who will make up the starting unit on opening night? What jerseys will the team wear?

Thankfully for the Charlotte Hornets, the teal and purple color palette lends itself to several quality jersey combinations. In their relatively short history, the Hornets have had several great looks, so narrowing down the list is not an easy task. However, this difficult question must be answered before the new season tips off.

Number 5: Black “Buzz City” City Edition Jersey (2017-2018)

Dwight Howard and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Charlotte Hornets (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Dwight Howard and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Charlotte Hornets (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

The Charlotte Hornets have experimented with several variations of black jerseys, from the sleeved “Buzz City” jerseys in 2015-16 to the teal-and-black City Edition jerseys of 2018-19. However, none of those pulled off the black design as nicely as the 2017-18 “Buzz City” jersey.

The stinger detail on the “B” and “Y” across the chest maintains consistency with the team’s other jerseys, while the “nest” pattern on the side adds a nice touch of purple and teal.  Having “Buzz City” across the chest is a nice change of pace, giving the team a unique geographical identity.

Other franchises have had similar wordmarks for their jerseys, such as the Phoenix Suns (The Valley), the Portland Trail Blazers (Rip City), and the Milwaukee Bucks (Cream City), to name a few.