NBA Commissioner Eyes Return of Trophy Logo in Finals Courts

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — After an online backlash regarding the lack of a trophy logo on the court during Game 1 of the NBA Finals, Commissioner Adam Silver indicated Friday that the league will consider bringing back the Larry O'Brien Trophy logo for the finals. This decision comes after fans expressed their disappointment over the plain appearance of the court, reminiscent of a regular season game rather than a championship matchup.

The NBA has historically incorporated trophy logos into its finals courts, but it discontinued this practice in 2014, citing player safety concerns due to claims of slipperiness caused by decals. The absence of these visuals in recent finals has led to significant criticism from fans and media alike, many of whom desire the unique identity that the trophy logo provided between the 1980s and 2014.

Silver noted the importance of visuals in modern broadcasts, saying, “It’s nice when you’re looking back on highlights and they stand out because you see that trophy logo or some other indication that it’s a special event.” He acknowledged the growing conversation on social media and expressed his nostalgia for past designs.

The current finals, featuring the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers, have drawn comparisons to the more colorful and vibrant courts used in the NBA Cup midseason tournament. Critics argue that if the league can create visually striking courts for this tournament, it should do the same for the finals.

Silver explained the complexities involved in court design, stating that creating new courts requires substantial planning time. Additionally, logistical challenges arise because the teams competing in the finals are not known until shortly before the series begins. This tight timeline complicates the incorporation of large logos onto the court.

Despite these challenges, there is hope among fans for the trophy’s return by the 2026 finals. The league seems open to negotiating the reintroduction of the logo, especially if it can be done in a way that ensures players’ safety. “We’ll look at it,” Silver concluded, hinting that a combination of nostalgia and media feedback might guide future decisions.