Utah Jazz’s Purple Mountain Uniforms Are a Healthy Homage

The “Purple Mountain,” last worn from 1996 to 2004, is back for the 2025-26 season. The jersey features a sweeping mountain design across the chest on a deep purple base with white and teal accents.

Fans who remember that era recall the look from Utah’s runs to the 1997 and 1998 NBA Finals.

The jerseys remained on the court through several seasons with more than 50 wins. The look became part of the franchise’s visual language, a look closely linked to Utah basketball and the Delta Center.

Purple at the Center Again

For more than 20 years, Utah has tried uniforms in various directions. They had one or two purple-themed uniforms mixed in, but they were featured among uniforms of various colors and styles, diluting the brand’s presence. However, this time their direction seems clear. The uniforms for the 2025-26 season, officially unveiled Aug. 1, are all designed around purple with a retro feel. It’s an effort aimed towards the team’s goal of regaining the franchise’s glory days and identity.

Past Meets Present

The uniforms have returned, but the current roster has a different makeup from the past. Since 2022, Danny Ainge and Will Hardy have relied on rebuilding through the draft for the team’s future. First-round picks from 2023, Keyonte George and Taylor Hendricks, remain key players for the team. This summer, the Jazz also acquired Ace Bailey, selecting him fifth overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Pairing a classic design with an emerging young core creates a visible throughline from the franchise’s best-known era to its current rebuild.

Keeping the Identity Strong

For small-market teams, a clear and recognizable identity can be as valuable as adding talent. The purple mountain look has become central to the Jazz’s brand and a defining part of how the team presents itself.

It draws a clear connection to one of the most celebrated periods in franchise history. This is more than a design change. It’s a signal to fans and the league about the goals the Jazz are chasing and where they intend to go.