NBA Wages War on Turtlenecks With 'Van Gundy Rule'

Filed under: Celtics, Magic, NBA Preseason

The NBA is implementing a new dress code this season -- but instead of being directed at players, it's the coaches the league is insisting dress up. No longer will coaches be allowed to wear mock turtlenecks under their suit jacket. Instead, a collared shirt is now required apparel.

And at the behest of one of the league's most casual coaches, let the new mandate be known as the "Van Gundy Rule."

"I want them to at least name the rule after me," Orlando Magic coach Van Gundy said. "Somebody has their Bird rights. Larry Bird got that rule named after him. I want it to be the Van Gundy Rule."

That certainly works, but it could have just as easily been known as the "Don Nelson Rule," had the league's all-time leader in mock turtlenecks and wins not just been pushed out by Golden State's new regime. But at least one member of the coaching fraternity isn't convinced there's a need for the rule in the first place.

"I don't like that," Boston Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. "I really like Stan's style. I thought Stan really set the bar for the dress code. I think he should stay with that. I think it's nice."

In any event, Van Gundy's wardrobe should be well-equipped to handle the call for additional formality. Shortly after Van Gundy signed his extension this summer, Magic CEO Bob Vander Weide sprung for a tailor to outfit the coach and some front-office members with new suits.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.

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