The NBA has confirmed the return of the Larry O’Brien trophy graphic to center court for this season’s NBA Finals, responding to feedback from fans who expressed disappointment over its absence in previous broadcasts.
The painted trophy, a long-standing symbol of the league’s championship, will be restored alongside the “Finals” script logo for the home team’s court, reinforcing the visual distinction of the league’s marquee event.
The decision follows widespread criticism during last season’s NBA Finals, when several traditional elements of the pre-game presentation were missing. Viewers noted the absence of the national anthem presentation and other visual cues that historically signified the importance of the Finals.
The Oklahoma City Thunder‘s seven-game series victory over the Indiana Pacers highlighted these omissions, with fans describing the broadcast as unusually subdued compared to regular-season coverage.
In addition to the missing trophy graphic, last year’s court design featured limited branding, contrasting sharply with the colorful NBA Cup floor designs seen during the regular season.
This lack of visual emphasis prompted fans to voice their dissatisfaction on social media, highlighting the absence of key elements that signify the league’s championship stage.
Commissioner Silver addresses the change
ESPNNBA insider Shams Charania reported that the league would reinstate the trophy graphic and Finals logo following fan feedback.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged the influence of social media in the decision, noting that the visual presentation contributes to both live viewing and the broader media experience.
“It’s nice when highlights stand out because you see that trophy logo or some other indication that it’s a special event,” Silver told The Athletic.
Silver also provided context for the previous removal of the center-court logos. He cited concerns about player safety, suggesting that painted graphics may have created a perception of added slipperiness on the court.
While there were no major incidents linked to prior Finals surfaces, the league introduced a variety of NBA Cup floor designs during the regular season, which reduced the relevance of those concerns over time.
The return of the trophy graphic demonstrates the league’s responsiveness to fan sentiment while balancing player considerations.
Visual elements like the trophy logo enhance the broadcast experience, providing clear markers that distinguish the Finals from regular-season games.
They also contribute to the production of memorable highlights, which remain important in a media-driven sports landscape.
Restoring these traditional visuals signals the NBA‘s commitment to maintaining the cultural and aesthetic significance of its championship series.
A better fan experience
Fans will now see the familiar trophy prominently displayed at center court, reinforcing the prestige of the event and aligning the presentation with historical expectations.
As the Finals approach, the decision to reintroduce the Larry O’Brien trophy graphic is expected to enhance both live and televised viewing experiences.
The move reflects a broader trend in professional sports where fan engagement and visual presentation play a critical role in shaping the perception of marquee events.
By responding to public feedback, the NBA is ensuring that its championship games deliver the visual and emotional impact associated with the sport’s highest level of competition.
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