Posted by Sarah Mendelsohn on 19th Apr 2013

It would seem that the rivalry between NBA players is not only on the basketball court, but off of it too. Always dressed to impressed, many basketball stars take great pride in enhancing their personal style and public presentation.  Talented Memphis Grizzlies point guard, Mike Conley, is no exception. The fashion forward athlete took a well-received risk by rocking the Phloyd, a laser etched Sapele wooden bow tie, with a button down shirt and vest look after the 2013 Playoff games. It was seemingly such a bold move that the tie even garnered some attention of it’s own. Noticed by both reporters in Conley’s presence and sports casters offsite, many perceived Conley’s choice in neckwear as a fashion challenge to his colleagues. Intrigued by the piece, sports commentators, Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, Kenny Smith, and Charles Barkley all spent a good amount of time remarking on the uniqueness of the tie. At first, they almost didn’t really believe that it was made out of wood. Upon learning that interesting fact, they all responded with a mixture of laughter, intrigue and genuine desire for a wooden bow tie. What they could all agree on is that Conley’s tie was by far one of the most innovative accessories to be worn by a basketball player at the moment.

So, do you think that Mike Conley’s outfit is one that EJ will really be able top? We hope he’s up for the challenge and although we don’t think he can win, we’d definitely be excited to see what he comes up with.  If it were up to us, we’d strongly suggest one of our hand painted wooden bow tie for that extra pop and distinctiveness. Luckily, both NBA players and their fans, can easily purchase Mike Conley’s Phloyd or up the ante with a hand painted wooden bow tie on Two Guys Bow Ties online store.