Raptors fans can show their LGBT pride with new T-shirts

Pop Goes The News — Fans of the Toronto Raptors are now able to show both their pride in the team and their LGBT pride.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) this week unveiled T-shirts and hoodies with rainbow-coloured logos for all 30 teams.

It’s the first time a professional men’s league has authorized an LGBT pride collection (MLB and the NHL previously created Pride apparel for certain teams.)

The limited-edition apparel is a partnership with the U.S.-based Gay, Lesbian, Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and Teespring. All proceeds from sales of the T-shirts and hoodies will support GLSEN initiatives to create safe schools for LGBT students.

The black T-shirts are available in men’s and women’s styles — only until June 13 — for about $32 CAD plus shipping. The unisex hoodies sell for about $52 CAD.

Earlier this month, NBA commissioner Adam Silver said the league will consider moving the 2017 All-Star Game out of Charlotte, North Carolina due to the state’s so-called “bathroom law,” which discriminates against people who are transgender.