The National Basketball Association (NBA) has been a part of the American sports landscape for generations. The iconic NBA logo is one of the most recognizable symbols in the sporting world and can be seen on jerseys, basketball courts, and merchandise across the globe. But who is on the NBA logo? This article will explore the history behind this iconic image and explain how it came to feature Los Angeles Lakers player Jerry West.
Jerry West was an All-Star point guard during his 14-season career with the Lakers from 1960 to 1974. He helped lead them to nine NBA finals appearances, including one championship in 1972. West’s influence on the game of basketball earned him an induction into both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980 and the FIBA Hall of Fame in 2007. His success as a player and his impact on the sport led to him becoming one of its most recognizable faces – making him a perfect choice for the NBA logo.
This article will take a deeper look at the history of this famous logo and explain why Jerry West was chosen as its face. It will also examine his legacy as a player, coach, and executive in professional basketball and discuss how he continues to be remembered by fans today. Finally, it will reflect on how this distinctive logo has become an integral part of both basketball culture and popular culture over time.
History of the NBA Logo
Brand consultant Alan Siegel designed the iconic NBA logo in 1969, which has been used by the league for over five decades. He also had a hand in creating the Major League Baseball logo prior to this. The NBA logo has become one of the most recognizable symbols in sports and is seen around the world on jerseys, merchandise, and basketball courts alike. The design is made up of three components: the player, a basketball, and the letters “NBA”.
The initial version of the logo featured Lakers guard Jerry West as its model. His likeness was chosen because it was seen as an embodiment of excellence in professional basketball; West had been named an All-Star 14 consecutive times from 1960 to 1974 and he led the Lakers to nine NBA finals appearances during his career. West also earned two NBA championships with Los Angeles in 1972 and 1980 when he served as their head coach.
Since its creation, there haven’t been many changes to the iconic logo. The logo stayed the same from 1969 up until 2017. That year, the logo underwent some minor changes. The colors were improved by featuring richer hues and the font was made narrower. In general, the logo design stayed the same and many people claim to barely notice a difference.
Who Is On The NBA’s Logo?
As one of the most iconic figures in professional basketball history, Jerry West has had a lasting impact on the game. He was named an All-Star 14 times during his career and led the Lakers to nine NBA finals appearances. His success as a player helped shape the modern game and inspired many future players to follow in his footsteps.
In addition to his accomplishments as a player, West also served as an executive and head coach for the Lakers. During his time in these roles, he helped build some of the greatest teams in NBA history – including the championship winning squads from 1972 and 1980. Throughout his coaching career, West maintained his passion for the game and continued to make an impact off the court.
The legacy of Jerry West lives on today in both basketball culture and popular culture. His silhouette is still featured prominently on the NBA logo, serving as a reminder to fans everywhere of everything he’s done for the sport. He continues to be remembered by current players and coaches alike as one of the greatest players ever to take the court.
West’s impact on professional basketball will never be forgotten. From inspiring generations of players with his style of play to being immortalized on the iconic NBA logo, there’s no doubt that he will always be remembered by fans around the world as one of its greatest icons.
Future of The NBA Logo
In January of 2020, the NBA was rocked by the sudden passing of one of its greatest players ever, Kobe Bryant. After news of his death spread, many thought an appropriate way for the NBA to honor his legacy would be to change the logo. Kyrie Irving posted an image on Instagram to revive this idea, stating “BLACK KINGS BUILT THE LEAGUE” as an argument in favor of a new logo representative.
However, it seems unlikely that Bryant will ever become the face of the NBA logo. This is partially due to his involvement in a sexual assault case, even though he was found not guilty due to the victim’s refusal to testify. The other main reason is because changing the logo could have legal and commercial ramifications – considering products with the league emblem bring in over a billion dollars annually.
Many people have also suggested Michael Jordan and LeBron James due to the fact that they are the faces of Black NBA Players.
The idea of replacing Jerry West on the NBA logo has been debated for years and continues to be discussed today. While there are obvious reasons why someone like Kobe Bryant should replace him – such as honoring his legacy and elevating players from different backgrounds – it seems unlikely that any changes will take place anytime soon. Despite this, West’s influence on professional basketball history will never be forgotten.
Conclusion
The NBA logo has become an integral part of both basketball culture and popular culture over time. Its iconic design elements, including the silhouette of Los Angeles Lakers player Jerry West, have been instantly recognizable since its creation in 1969. Through his accomplishments as a player, executive, and coach, West has left an indelible mark on the game of basketball that continues to be remembered by fans today. His legacy will live on forever in the form of the NBA logo – a constant reminder of everything he has done for the sport.
