My Favorite Celeb Looks Happen Courtside—7 Outfits I'd Wear to a Game

Fashion people are stereotyped as being more interested in the latest controversial runway trend than sports. I grew up as an overly dedicated football fan, so for me, that isn't necessarily true. If you're a person who loves fashion and sports, I can guess that you already know the thrill of getting dressed up to go to a basketball game.

Contrary to sporting events where the stars hide in private boxes, the best part of an NBA game is seeing your favorite celebrities front and center. Since they're wildly on display when seated courtside, celebrities tend to arrive dressed to impress, which always inspires me to do the same.

In 2023, I want to do more activities in New York City, so I decided that a trip to Barclays Center is definitely on my to-do list. As I start to think about what I'll wear to this exciting event, I'm browsing my favorite celebrity courtside moments. Below, find seven potential outfits to choose from. 

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(Image credit: NY KNICKS/MSG SPORTS)

Pete Davidson indeed gets around, so it was no surprise that he decided to take Emily Ratajkowski out on a highly public first date. While most people were wondering if this relationship would last, I was admiring the puffer jacket that Ratajkowski wore. You can never go wrong with a cropped puffer and jeans.

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(Image credit: Getty Images)

Some people see wearing all black as boring, but when they say that, I guide them to this Rihanna moment that is anything but. A perfectly layered ensemble that's topped off with bold jewelry is an easy way to get out the door fast when you're planning on attending an NBA game.

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(Image credit: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

If you're lucky enough to sit courtside, dressing from the shoes up is a genius way of looking good and potentially capturing the attention of the players. Kendall Jenner's disco-ball knee-high boots are the perfect example of this. Since you'll be surrounded by 6'5"+ men, I assure you that you'll be grateful you wore high heels.

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(Image credit: Harry How/Getty Images)

Dressing for a basketball game can be complicated because you want to dress casually and look your best. Jennifer Lopez would tell you not to overthink it. Throwing on a Candian tuxedo will steer you in the right direction.

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(Image credit: Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images)

I can't tell whose outfit I like more. Justine Skye and Hailey Bieber doubled up on oversize leather bomber jackets, baggy pants, and black leather shoulder bags. If you're more of a "suit up" kind of person, a tailored vest might be your choice, but if you're casual, try emulating Skye's baggy T-shirt.

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(Image credit: Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images)

Kim Kardashian's style has leaned on strong silhouettes and bold color schemes for some time now. This warm color palette is right up my alley and is such a fun way to get dressed. I'll be thinking about the puffer coat for weeks.

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(Image credit: Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Now, it's bold to wear white to an NBA game, but when in Miami… Gabrielle Union confidently pulls off this bold fashion moment that might take you from courtside seats to the beach, and I'm here for it. If a basketball game is your date night, here's what to wear.

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Up Next: These Are the 2023 Trends I'll Be Wearing With Jeans

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.