For dedicated sports lovers, NBA basketball wear is a pre-requisite to earning the coveted status of true 'fanhood'. Whether you are part of the crowd or watching from home, every game is more exciting when you can proudly wear your team jersey and stand and cheer for your favorite player.

Nothing speaks loyalty louder than game gear.

You can support your franchise, create the spirit of competition - and maybe even a little rivalry - with NBA apparel that will make you feel like you are part of the team.

Basketball is one of the world's most popular sports, and with the recent influx of European players joining American leagues, the NBA has received international interest and gained fans from all over the world. But, if you have been a fan for any length of time you know that finding authentic jerseys or officially licensed merchandise is not as easy as it would seem.

Finding what you want can be difficult, especially if your favorite team is not local or if you live outside the United States. Buying online is usually your best choice, but the options can be overwhelming, prices can vary, and you often question whether or not you are getting the best quality for your money.

From retro Michael Jordan or Larry Bird jerseys to authentic Lebron James or Kobe Bryant merchandise, true fans love to remember their heroes and cheer on their idols.

Whether their team is winning or losing, through challenges and championships, basketball followers everywhere will proudly wear their jerseys, hats, jackets, watches, and even shoes, wildly wave their foam fingers and shout at the top of their lungs in an effort to push their team to victory. But, basketball wear can be costly, so before you spend your hard earned cash for an online purchase, there are a few things you should consider.

• Is the seller reputable?

It is important to make sure that the website offers a safe and secure way to make a purchase and guarantees that your personal information will be protected. Also, it is a good idea to check customer feedback and seller ratings or reviews before making a final decision to purchase a product from any particular online store or company.

• Selection.

There is nothing more frustrating than finding the perfect jersey or jacket only to discover that it is not available in your size or for your favorite player. Does the online store offer a variety of products, sizes, or teams, and if they don't have what you are looking for, will they find it for you?

Is their merchandise in stock or does it always seem as if everything is sold out or unavailable?

When buying basketball wear, you will be much more satisfied with your experience if you find a website that is reputable and able to please the customer by offering a wide selection of available products so you can get everything you need and want at one place.

• Quality.

When purchasing online you run the risk of receiving counterfeit or poor quality products. Cheaper basketball wear is not always the best option since it does not look like what the players wear on the court and will not be as durable.

Look for stores that sell licensed goods that carry the official NBA logo. From the authentic player jersey, to the popular swingman or less expensive replica jersey, hats, jackets, or footwear, make sure the store you are purchasing from carries high quality and licensed merchandise so you will be pleased with your selection and be able wear it proudly.

• Customer Service.

Buying basketball apparel should not be a difficult task, especially if you are using a reputable online store with excellent customer service. Your purchase will be more enjoyable if the website is simple to use and if the seller is easy to contact by phone or email.

Are the prices reasonable, is the shipping reliable and quick, and does the seller put the customer first?

Basketball wear is a great way to encourage team spirit, cheer for your favorite player, and increase the excitement of any game. But, purchasing merchandise and proudly supporting your home team can be costly, so you want to make sure that you are getting high quality, officially licensed products for a fair price, and that you are receiving your purchase from a reputable seller that offers great customer service with a user friendly website.

By doing a little bit of homework, you can find basketball wear that will fit your budget and make you feel like you belong on the court with the pros.