Denim Tears Debuts 5th Quarter Collection

Summary

• Denim Tears releases its latest collection, 5th Quarter, exploring basketball’s influence through fashion, heritage, and minimalist design
• The collection features tributes to cultural icons like John Thompson Jr., with African mudcloth patterns and reimagined sportswear staples
• After an early preview in Paris, the full drop will launch on the Denim Tears website and in New York City on July 4th

Denim Tears is set to release a new collection titled 5th Quarter, inspired by the deep cultural connection between Black Americans and the game of basketball.

Tremaine Emory’s vision for the collection centers on the often-unspoken, rarely-televised period in an athlete’s life — where they grapple with identity their achievement while facing what lies beyond the court. 5th Quarter shines a light on this nuanced space, capturing the emotional and cultural weight of the sport.

The collection pays tribute to figures like Rafer “Skip 2 My Lou” Alston and legendary coach John Thompson Jr., honoring their impact both on and off the court. Their legacies are woven directly into the garments — from hoodies and sweatpants detailed with African Mudcloth patterns to accessories like reimagined game towels and a Basketball Net Necklace.

Visually, the collection embraces a minimalist aesthetic, but is layered with thoughtful design cues that speak to its deeper message. One standout ensemble pairs a Denim Tears jersey with crisp white basketball shorts, detailed with mudcloth-inspired patterns running along the side seams and waistline. The look is styled with a tailored khaki dress suit, cinched at the waist by a belt crafted in the traditional African mudcloth motif — blending athletic heritage with cultural symbolism. On the back of the jersey, the name “THOMPSON” is emblazoned in bold tribute to John Thompson Jr., the first Black coach to win an NCAA championship .

From headwear and outerwear to accessories and athletic silhouettes, every piece in the 5th Quarter collection speaks to a greater narrative. While an early preview pop-up was held at Dover Street Market Paris on June 28 and June 29, the full collection will be available online July 4th at the Denim Tears website and in-store at Africa Diaspora Goods in New York City.