The Pitt Panthers are known for their work ethic, determination, strength and endurance--traits they share with steel workers who put in long days in grueling conditions. Noting these parallels, Nike designers zeroed in oon a fitting symbol: the blast furnaces that fire Pittsburgh's steel mills.
That's the description used by Nike, when designing these special Nike Pro Combat uniforms. The uniforms were unveiled at a special ceremony in New York City, at the Skylight West Studios.
Former Pitt offensive lineman Ruben Brown was the special Pitt player selected to present Pitt's uniform, while athletic director Steve Pederson was on hand for the unveiling as well.
The Nike designers came up with the scheme, while Pitt came up with the final approval.
"We had to make sure it looked like us," Pederson said. "I think that's a team that plays defense, a team that runs the ball. It looks like a Pitt team."
We'll have more from today's special unveiling, including more from Pederson, as well as Brown, including Brown's take on this year's Pitt team.
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Pitt Nike Combat Helmet
Pitt Nike Combat
Shell, that willl be worn underneath Nike Combat Jersey
Back of Pitt's Nike Combat Jersey
Shoulder Numbers
Overview of Pitt helmet, the stripe replicates a steel beam
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