Chris “Birdman” Andersen of the Miami Heat chose “Honky-Tonk” for his new jersey nickname.
The Miami Herald reported on the development Monday, posting a photo of Andersen, who was a critical component of the Heat’s title run last season.
The NBA said that starting next season, players will have the option to chose jersey nicknames.
It’s unclear what teammates LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, or Chris Bosh will choose.
“It shows growth in our league and it shows we do adapt to what’s going on around us,” said Ray Allen, the Heat guard. “And we’re still kids, playing a kids’ game. Even though we’re now men playing a kids’ game, we still remember where we come from. Everybody had a nickname, and it’s a way to let the fans in a little bit more.”
Allen said he will have the nickname “Shuttlesworth” in reference to the movie he starred in, “He Got Game.”
