WASHINGTON — The official uniforms for NBA players could soon be made in Asia, a move drawing sharp criticism from a New York Democratic senator. Sports-apparel maker Adidas plans to end its contract with American suppliers and move production of NBA jerseys to a factory in Thailand.
The move could cost about 100 jobs at a factory in upstate New York that makes more than half the uniforms worn by Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and other NBA players.
Sen. Chuck Schumer said the switch would blemish more than a century of history for the marquee American sport. He called on Adidas to reverse its decision and keep making the uniforms in the U.S.
“To do anything else is an insult to the American worker and sports fans everywhere in America,” said the New York Democrat, who is a longtime New York Knicks fan.
American Classic Outfitters of Perry, N.Y., has been making NBA jerseys for 40 years. Adidas is in the middle of an 11-year merchandising deal to be the official uniform and apparel provider for the NBA, the WNBA and the NBA Development League.
A spokeswoman for the NBA did not immediately respond to requests for comments. The Associated Press
