The Inspiring Story Behind the Iconic NBA Logo
Unveiling the Captivating Origins
The iconic National Basketball Association (NBA) logo, with its striking red, white, and blue emblem, has captivated sports fans for decades. But did you know the intriguing story behind its creation?
The Inspiration: Jerry West, the Logo
The NBA commissioned designer Alan Siegel in 1969 to create a new logo for the league. Siegel turned to one of the game's greatest players for inspiration: Jerry West.
As a 14-time All-Star for the Los Angeles Lakers, West possessed a signature playing style that epitomized grace and athleticism. It was a photograph of West in motion that sparked the idea for the logo.
The Design: Embodying Excellence
Siegel skillfully captured West's silhouette in the logo, with the ball at his fingertips symbolizing the dynamic nature of the sport. The red, white, and blue color scheme represented the American spirit and the league's global reach.
The resulting emblem became an instant classic, perfectly encapsulating the essence of the NBA. It has remained unchanged for over five decades, a testament to Siegel's timeless design.
Legacy of Inspiration: Jerry West, the Icon
In June 2024, the NBA lost one of its legends: Jerry West. At 86, the man who had unknowingly inspired the league's logo had passed on.
The NBA logo will forever serve as a tribute to West's legacy as a player and an icon of the sport. It is a symbol of the game's history, its present, and its boundless future.
Comments