If you have ever watched a basketball game and noticed a tight shirt underneath a player's jersey, you are usually looking at a basketball compression shirt.
Players may also call it an undershirt, compression top, or base layer.
They all describe roughly the same idea: a fitted athletic shirt worn underneath the basketball jersey.
What Is the Shirt Under a Basketball Jersey Called?
The most common names are:
- Basketball compression shirt
- Compression undershirt
- Basketball undershirt
- Base layer
- Compression top
If you are shopping specifically for basketball, basketball compression shirt is usually the clearest term to search for.
Unlike a normal T-shirt, a compression shirt is designed to fit close to the body.
What Styles Do Basketball Players Wear?
There are three common styles.
Short Sleeve Compression Shirts
These look similar to a fitted athletic T-shirt.
They are commonly worn when a player wants less arm coverage while still wearing a fitted layer underneath the jersey.
Long Sleeve Compression Shirts
Long sleeve compression shirts cover the full arm and create a noticeably different look under a sleeveless basketball jersey.
Some players simply prefer the extra coverage and style.
Sleeveless Compression Shirts
These fit underneath the jersey while keeping the arms completely uncovered.
They can be a good option for players who want an extra layer without changing the traditional sleeveless basketball look.
Is a Compression Shirt the Same as a Base Layer?
For basketball, the terms often overlap.
A base layer simply means the first layer of clothing worn against your body.
A compression shirt can be used as that base layer.
That is why you may see basketball stores use terms like:
basketball base layer
compression shirt
compression undershirt
for very similar products.
Do You Have to Wear One?
No.
Plenty of basketball players wear their jersey without anything underneath it.
Others prefer wearing a compression shirt.
It mostly comes down to personal preference, team rules, fit, and how a player wants to look on the court.
Can Basketball Compression Shirts Be Customized?
Yes.
A basketball compression shirt does not have to be completely plain.
Players can wear shirts personalized with things like:
- Their name
- Jersey number
- Signature
- Graphics
- Personal designs
- Team inspired details
This turns the shirt underneath the jersey into something that actually represents the player wearing it.
So What Should You Look For?
If you are trying to find the shirt basketball players wear underneath their jerseys, start by searching for a:
basketball compression shirt
From there, choose the sleeve length, fit, color, and design that works for you.
Your jersey represents the team.
Your first layer can represent you.
Create your own basketball compression shirt with Compression Lab.
