Miami’s new individually numbered “Trophy Gold” jerseys were released with memorabilia collectors in mind. And it may be the start of an NBA-wide trend.
As the world of sports collectibles continues to expand in all directions, the Miami Heat are adding a bit of extra flair to the conversation with Thursday’s release of their limited edition “Trophy Gold” jerseys.
Not only will the Heat only sell 6,031 of these special getups initially, but each comes individually numbered.
It’s a smart strategy. And the rest of the NBA ought to take notice.
(If you’re wondering where the number 6,031 came from, take the years of the franchise’s three championships and add them together: 2006 + 2012 + 2013 = 6,031.)
The team also plans to auction several autographed jerseys featuring members of the Heat championship teams through the years. The 2006, 2012, and 2013 jerseys will be signed by team president Pat Riley, head coach Erik Spoelstra, and owner Mickey Arison.
Miami’s Trophy Gold merchandise, which also includes other apparel items like basketball shorts, will be available at midnight on March 17th at the official Miami Heat online store. The autographed jerseys go up for auction on March 20th.
If and when collectors end up going wild for this limited set, expect the Heat’s blueprint to be copied all over the league.
The Heat will first break out these jerseys on the court in a March 16th showdown at home against the Cavaliers, and then again the next day on the road at Memphis.
The Heat are no strangers to fun and flashy jerseys, donning the popular Miami Vice, Vice Versa, and Blackout designs over the years. And executive vice president Michael McCullough doesn’t believe that fans will get tired of special-edition styles any time soon.
“If you’re going to ask me if there’s a point of over-saturation, I am going to say no,” McCullough said, “because what we are ultimately trying to do is find ways to connect with our fan base.”
The team has not ruled out releasing more Trophy Gold jerseys down the line. For now, however, you’ve only got 6,031 chances to snag one.
