Offseason Projects
Through the powers that be, we had the opportunity to interview and learn from one of our favorite underrated brands right now, Offseason Projects. This article is designed to highlight and explain what makes Offseason Projects the brand that it is.
Introduce yourself: What is your name? Where are you from? And what is your background?
Drew! I just wanna say, thank you! I appreciate the interest in Offseason Projects and sharing my brand on your platform. My name is Bertram (Bert) Hall and sheeshhh, have you ever seen that movie Jumper? If so, I grew up movin’ a lot...different places every other year. Although, I spent most of my adult life in North Hollywood before my girlfriend and I moved to Chicago. I’ve been here since 2017 and it's been nothin’ but a blessin’. Chicago gets a bad rap in the media, but it's one of best cities in this country - in my opinion. Shit, maybe even in the world if you consider our architecture and culture.
What is the origin story of Offseason Projects? Where does the name come from? When and where did the brand start?
As you can relate, us being former athletes, it's always a struggle re-identifying as someone other than a basketball player, or said athlete. So, while I was brainstorming a career path, the underlying thought always alluded to being my own boss. After being exposed to brands like Pigalle, and then seeing the growth of brands like ALD, Just Don, EE and John Elliott, where they held core values associated with basketball, it really confirmed the possibilities. Offseason Projects is a basketball lifestyle brand bridging the gaps between sport, design, and culture. Every offseason brings reflection, rest, and a commitment to get better because the next season you need to be prepared. That's consistent with life as well. We go through periods where growth is necessary in order to get to the next level. And pink is a nod to my mother who battled Breast Cancer. So, in 2017, once I was comfortable with my career and I identified my niche - I got to work.
What are three things, above all else, you want people to know about your brand?
- Community first, I’m trying my best to build a community people can come to to discuss sport, design, and culture.
- Thoughtfully made products. Makin’ sure everything I offer is durable - I just want products to last long.
- Engaging content that’s aligned with our core values and beliefs.
What are the details about Offseason Projects most recent project/collection? What was the inspiration for this project/collection?
Recently, I’ve been exploring ways to upcycle vintage sportswear gear. It’s fulfilling knowing repurposing garments can help cut down on a slew of real environmental impacts. I think this will always be a part of the brand. Plus, who doesn’t want a smooth vintage Bulls tee? hah
Shout out Taz with TI$A - he was definitely an OG and a big influence on branding vintage gear.
I’m also workin’ on wool bucket hats for the winter and beanies as well. You know, Chicago gets dumb cold! I think for now, the focus will be on crafting well made accessories before moving on to cut and sew garments.
Might do promotional tees for the holidays but we’ll see!
Who/what are some influences for Offseason Projects?
Guys like John Elliott, Eric Emanual, Teddy, Stephane Ashpool and Don C are all points of inspiration.
What are some things that make Offseason Projects?
Our ability to bridge gaps between different cultures and disciplines. We all have something in common, so being able to bring out those similarities is special.
What are five adjectives you would use to describe Offseason Projects?
- Smooth
- Tenacious
- Inspirational
- Communal
- Collaborative
What can we expect from Offseason Projects in the future?
More purpose driven content and products that serve those intentions.
Offseason Projects Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/offseason.projects/
Offseason Projects Website: