If the NBA is focused on making sure the quality and style of play is perceived as blue-collar, there is now also a movement that could mean the players - at least in certain instances - might also have to wear them.

The specifics of a dress code for, among other instances, injured or inactive players in street clothes on the bench during games, are still being formulated. Details have yet to be distributed to the 30 teams.

But commissioner David Stern told the Boston Globe Wednesday night that he expects the code to include sport coats and collared shirts, and exclude blue jeans. Stern was among the honorees at a National Braille Press event, and when asked about casual dress by the players, said, "Well, the job description has changed."

Stern said, "We're working on a job description."

Billy King, the 76ers' president and general manager, said yesterday, "There will be some new policy. When it comes down, we'll implement it."

Dan Wasserman, the director of communications for the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), said, "We've agreed to discuss adopting some general guidelines for a dress code. As far as the specifics of what the league is proposing, we are actively seeking player input."