NBA Finals Bring Back Iconic Trophy Logo to Center Court

Published

4 hours ago

22 October, 2025

editorial

UPDATE: The iconic Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy logo is set to make a triumphant return to the NBA Finals court, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Shams Charania on Wednesday. Fans can expect the large trophy logo to be painted in the center court, alongside the Finals script logo on the home team’s floor, marking a nostalgic shift back to tradition.

This decision comes in response to widespread fan feedback during last year’s Finals between Oklahoma City and Indiana, where viewers expressed disappointment over the absence of the Finals logo decals. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged the outcry, emphasizing that the league would explore reinstating these distinctive logos that signify the NBA’s biggest stage.

Silver noted, “I’ve seen some of the chatter on social media around on-court decals,” during an interview with ESPN, highlighting the fans’ desire for the classic look. The last appearance of the large trophy on the Finals court was back in 2009, and Silver indicated that the league is eager to rekindle this tradition for its passionate audience.

The decision to replace the decals with painted logos marks a significant shift for the NBA, which had removed the logos a decade ago due to player safety concerns regarding slipperiness. Reflecting on the return of the trophy logo, Silver remarked, “Maybe there’s a way around it. To be honest, I hadn’t thought all that much about it until I saw it on social media.”

With the NBA Finals rapidly approaching, this move is expected to resonate deeply with fans, enhancing the viewing experience both in arenas and on social media platforms. As the league embraces its history, fans can look forward to a visually striking Finals that highlights the championship’s prestige.

The NBA’s commitment to enhancing the Finals experience underscores the league’s awareness of its fan base’s preferences and nostalgia. As the countdown to the Finals continues, all eyes will be on the court as it transforms into a canvas of tradition and celebration.