Nike unveils new college-hoops look

The uniforms, with tighter jerseys and longer, baggier shorts, can be customized with underlayer tops.

PORTLAND, Ore. - Players from four elite basketball universities will be hitting the court this week with distinctly different Nike uniforms that showcase their upper bodies - and reveal a little less leg.

The new line of uniforms will be worn by players for Ohio State University, University of Florida, University of Arizona, and Syracuse University. Nike plans to introduce the uniforms for all its NCAA partner schools beginning next fall.

The new jerseys are tighter and the shorts are longer and baggier.

And players have an option of adding letggings and aerodynamic underlayer tops.

Nike said players had told the company they were looking for ways to personalize their looks, which some college players do with tops under their jerseys.

Other details include an alligator scale pattern worked into the University of Florida uniforms and a LeBron James insignia on Ohio State's.

Mr. James has said he would have attended OSU if he hadn't gone directly to the pros.

Nike said the optional padded compression-material undershorts, a first for the company, provide support for hamstrings, hips, and calves.

The company did not disclose the cost or value of the launch. Consumer versions of the new line will be available for fans to purchase.