Since their inception in 1946, the Celtics have worn the familiar combination of green and white – predominately white at home, and green when playing away.

The colours were smartly chosen as a marketing tactic to attract Boston’s then (and still currently) large Irish population. In respect, the team’s use of the now-common leprechaun and shamrock logos need no further explanation.

2005-06 saw the Celtics introduce an alternate road uniform, which replaced white with black. Originally used only sparingly, this design is now used in over half of their away games, and has proved to be a merchandising hit.

Boston now also utilise a third alternative during every third week of March as part of St Patrick’s Day celebrations. The design is that of their regular road uniform, with gold replacing white.

In comparison, the Lakers have undergone a single facelift since their move to Los Angeles from Minneapolis in 1960. Playing in blue and light blue for five seasons, the Lakers adopted a striking purple and gold colourway following the sale of the franchise to Canadian-American entrepreneur Jack Kent Cook.

Whilst not steeped the tradition that Boston can boast of, or related to any agenda of local significance, the purple and gold uniforms guided the Lakers to becoming the most recognisable hoops team worldwide. Magic Johnson’s showtime antics boosted their profile in the 80’s, with the Shaq/Kobe connection re-asserting marketing dominance beginning in the late 90’s.

The Lakers have a predominately white alternate strip, which is used only on Sunday and holiday home games. The uniform is a tribute to the late Chick Hearn, who broadcast 3,338 consecutive games for the team until his passing in 2002.