The NBA logo is one of the most recognizable symbols in the sports world, representing basketball excellence and the global impact of the sport. While the logo itself is simple—depicting a player in mid-dribble—it holds deep meaning and history. Have you ever wondered who is in the NBA logo and why this particular design was chosen? The answer may surprise you. The figure in the logo is inspired by one of basketball's greatest legends, but the decision to use him was shrouded in mystery for many years. In this article, we’ll uncover the story behind the NBA logo, explain why this legend was chosen, and explore its lasting legacy in the world of basketball.
The NBA logo has sparked curiosity for decades. The logo, which features a silhouette of a player dribbling, is widely recognized worldwide. Still, for a long time, the identity of the player depicted in the logo was a closely guarded secret. It wasn’t until later that it was revealed that the logo was inspired by Jerry West, a former NBA player who is still regarded as one of the league's greatest.
Jerry West is a basketball icon. Known for his incredible skills, West played for the Los Angeles Lakers from 1960 to 1974. He was a standout guard and one of the most consistent performers in NBA history, known for his scoring ability and clutch performances in the playoffs. His image on the NBA logo became a symbol of the perfect basketball player.
West's Legacy
Jerry West’s influence on the game extends beyond his playing career. As an executive, he helped build the Golden State Warriors dynasty and played a pivotal role in forming other championship-winning teams.
The 'Logo' Moment
The logo, designed by Alan Siegel in 1969, was based on a photo of West dribbling. Although there was no formal agreement to use West's likeness, the image stuck, and the NBA adopted it as the official logo.
The decision to choose Jerry West for the logo wasn't just because of his playing style but because of the significance of his impact on the NBA. Here are a few reasons why West’s likeness became so iconic:
West’s reputation as one of the greatest point guards in history made him an obvious choice for a logo representing the sport. He was known for his scoring, leadership, and competitiveness, all qualities that the NBA wanted to highlight.
The NBA logo was created during a time when the league was looking to solidify its identity. The logo had to embody the game's intensity, speed, and excitement. West's dribbling pose perfectly captured this, symbolizing the fast-paced nature of basketball.
While it is widely believed that West’s image was used for the logo, the NBA never officially confirmed his role until many years later. West himself has often expressed mixed feelings about being the face of the logo, stating that it was not something he asked for or was consulted about.
While Jerry West’s silhouette remains unchanged, the NBA logo has gone through some modifications to keep up with the times. These changes have included updates to color schemes and the overall branding of the NBA.
First Designs
The original logo was black and white, reflecting the period when it was created. Over the years, color variations were introduced, including the iconic red, white, and blue scheme seen today.
Recent Branding Updates
The NBA has updated its branding, but the logo still carries the silhouette of Jerry West, unchanged for decades. The consistency in design helps maintain the logo's strong identity across the world.
The NBA logo has become a symbol of excellence in basketball. It’s more than just an emblem for the league—it's a global representation of the sport’s rich history and its elite players.
Today, the NBA logo is recognized not just in the United States but across the world. It’s synonymous with greatness in basketball, inspiring young players everywhere to aim for the highest standards of skill and sportsmanship.
Though West himself may not have always embraced his connection to the logo, his legacy lives on through the generations of basketball players who look up to him as a role model. His success on the court paved the way for countless others to follow in his footsteps, aspiring to become legends of their own.