By ETT The NBA Considers Reviving Finals Court Trophy Logos
The NBA has sparked a lively debate about the design of its Finals court, particularly after the Indiana Pacers’ surprising victory in Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Commissioner Adam Silver recently addressed this issue, suggesting that the league may bring back the Larry O’Brien Trophy logos to the court next season. This decision comes after fans and media members expressed their desire for a more visually distinct Finals court.
The discussion about the court design gained momentum due to comparisons with the NBA Cup, where the midseason tournament features colorful and team-specific decals. Critics argued that while the NBA Cup courts are ornate, the Finals courts have been too plain, especially considering their significance. Silver acknowledged these concerns, stating that the league will revisit the idea after the current season.
Historically, the NBA has included various iterations of the trophy logo on the court. However, they were removed in 2014 due to concerns about player safety, with claims that the logos made the court surface slippery. Despite this, there have been exceptions, such as in 2017 when the Cleveland Cavaliers featured a small trophy logo near the court’s corner, and during the 2020 Orlando bubble finals, where a large, sponsored logo was displayed.
Why Were the Logos Removed?
The primary reason for removing the logos in 2014 was player safety. There were reports that the addition of the logos made the court slippery, which could increase the risk of injuries. Additionally, altering the court design just before the Finals was seen as unnecessary and potentially distracting for the players. Silver mentioned that teams might have been superstitious about changing the court setup during such a crucial time.
Moreover, the process of redesigning the court for the Finals is more complex than it seems. Unlike the NBA Cup, where the league has ample time to plan and teams can design their own courts, the Finals require a more neutral approach. The logistics of painting and preparing the court within a tight timeframe were challenging, which contributed to the decision to keep the courts simpler.
The Potential Return of the Logos
While no official decision has been made, Silver hinted that the league is open to reintroducing the logos for the 2026 NBA Finals. He emphasized the importance of making the Finals stand out, both for live audiences and for social media highlights. The nostalgic value and the need for a visually distinctive look are key factors in this consideration.
Fans and media members have long advocated for a more festive and unique court design for the Finals. The comparison to the NBA Cup courts, which are vibrant and tailored to each team, has highlighted the relatively plain look of the Finals courts. The league’s willingness to listen to feedback suggests a possible shift in their approach to court design for future championships.
A New Era for NBA Finals Courts?
The NBA’s consideration of bringing back the trophy logos reflects a broader effort to enhance the visual appeal of the Finals. If implemented, this change could not only satisfy fan demands but also provide a more engaging experience for viewers. As the league continues to evolve, incorporating elements that celebrate its history while embracing modern aesthetics could set a new standard for basketball presentations.
The decision will likely be made after the 2025 season, giving the league ample time to plan and design the courts without compromising player safety or game logistics. As Silver noted, the league values both tradition and innovation, and this potential change is a step toward balancing those aspects.