Sports and fashion are two explosive worlds that have increasingly embraced one another with each passing week. The blossoming romance is akin to the unbreakable bond between Jordan and Pippen. They go hand in hand. It works for the player, it works for the brands, and most of the time it even works for the fans.

What true naturals like Joe Namath thought was simply “lookin’ smooth” has turned into a giant publicity spectacle, which often leads to various endorsements from brands looking to move that all-important needle. And that’s when things inevitably snowball into an attention-forced abyss, like Von Miller’s furriest choices in headgear, or Dwyane Wade wearing a self-branded eye-stickie.

Remember this one? Oh, how quickly we forget such utter ridiculousness.

Dwyane Wade eye stickie

But then there’s all of those reliable fans, who — while always clamoring for the camera — never bow to the whims of snooty, highbrow fashionistas. What they do bring is a unique, expressive element of their own choosing, and one that usually coincides with just how bad or good their team is performing.

And that — coupled with athletes, media personalities, and even spirited mascots — is what this very space is here to embrace. This week’s edition serves as a fond farewell to football.

*****

Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant Jedi

This may be the only time I’ll ever say this about the black turtleneck/black jacket combo, but I believe Kobe Bryant has earned the right to dress up as a Jedi.

Helpful Hint: If we see this trend spread to the likes of, well, anyone in broadcasting the comment above will be harshly RESCINDED.

*****

Papa John!

Ditching that beautiful, signature red Papa John polo for a Broncos shirt says everything you need to know about this sacred friendship. Because I’m pretty sure I’ve never seen Papa John in anything but a Papa John’s red button down.

Helpful Hint: Jumping up to first in the kissing line was just wrong. Having said that, I’d love to see Papa John Schnatter working his magic around midnight during a wild wedding reception.

*****

Jim Nantz

Jim Nantz dab Super Bowl 50

There’s no doubt in my mind Jim Nantz was trolling the Broncos in this Steelers shout-out of a suit which, frankly, I found to be pretty immature. Whatever it was, he’s basically channeling a game show host here. An exceedingly happy, possibly unnerving game show host. (Ed note: Tim, it was a gold tie for the Super Bowl’s 50th anniversary, and it was…golden.)

Helpful Hint: Actually, nothing to add here, other than a sincere thank you for FINALLY killing “the Dab.” Someone had do it. And it’s definitely dead now.

Jim Nantz dab Von Miller

*****

Bob Plager?

Sure, Bob Plager! He’s a retired NHL defenseman who played 14 seasons. While that’s great and all, he’s HERE for the outrageous old school Batman suit, complete with matching tie.

Helpful Hint: If I really want to be critical, I’d say the button-down was a pretty bad choice. But I don’t care, now I know what I’m wearing for Halloween.

*****

Don Cherry

Don Cherry celebrated his birthday over this past week and did so by wearing a suit with… goal sirens all over it? Of COURSE he did. He’s Don f”ing Cherry. So happy birthday, sir. No one could possibly discuss sports fashion without including you.

*****

Jason Whitlock

Jason Whitlock fashion

I like what Whitlock’s going for here with the jacket and vest look, but if he doesn’t send that light-blue checkered button-down directly through a wood chipper, I’d be more than happy to do it for him.

Helpful Hint: That does not mean to go shirtless when going with this approach. This is crucial to know.

*****

Derrick Rose & Son

Check out P.J. Rose! Not only did he just vault himself into the mix for sports photo of the year, he did so in style. The little dude is just three-years-old and he already has a more fashionable jacket than 90% of society.

Game. Set. P.J.

*****

Julius Randle

About Tim Ryan

Freelance Writer, Editor, Humorist, and Fashion Critic. Currently in heated negotiations over the rights to Jack Sikma's striking perm and an authentic mold of Chris Sabo's goggles.