What Is the NBA Trophy Called and What Does It Represent?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar NBA

When it comes to professional basketball, few symbols carry as much prestige and history as the trophy awarded to the ultimate champions. Every year, teams across the National Basketball Association (NBA) battle fiercely through regular seasons and playoffs, all with their eyes set on one coveted prize. But what exactly is the NBA trophy called, and what makes it such a significant emblem in the world of sports?

The NBA trophy is more than just a shiny object; it represents years of dedication, teamwork, and triumph. Its design, history, and the traditions surrounding it all contribute to the mystique and honor it holds. Understanding the name and background of this trophy offers a glimpse into the rich legacy of the NBA and the spirit of competition that defines the league.

In the sections that follow, we will explore the origins of the NBA trophy’s name, the story behind its creation, and the meaning it carries for players and fans alike. Whether you’re a longtime basketball enthusiast or a newcomer eager to learn, this overview will deepen your appreciation for one of sports’ most iconic awards.

The Design and Symbolism of the NBA Trophy

The NBA trophy, officially known as the Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy, is a symbol of basketball excellence and the ultimate prize for the winning team of the NBA Finals. The design of the trophy reflects the spirit and prestige of the league, combining both artistic elegance and meaningful symbolism.

Crafted from sterling silver and overlaid with 24-karat gold, the trophy stands approximately two feet tall and weighs around 14.5 pounds. Its sleek, modern design features a basketball positioned above a hoop and net, capturing the essence of the game in a three-dimensional form. The basketball is angled as if it is about to enter the hoop, representing the moment of victory and accomplishment.

The trophy’s base is engraved with the words “NBA Championship,” and each year the winning team’s name is inscribed on a plaque attached to the bottom. This ongoing record serves as a historical ledger of the league’s champions, celebrating the legacy of each victorious franchise.

Historical Evolution of the NBA Trophy

The NBA trophy has undergone several changes since the league’s inception, evolving alongside the sport and its growing popularity. Initially, the championship trophy bore different names and designs before the current Larry O’Brien designation was adopted.

  • Walter A. Brown Trophy (1947-1976): Named after the original owner of the Boston Celtics and a founding figure in the NBA, this trophy was awarded during the early years of the league.
  • Larry O’Brien Trophy (1977-Present): Renamed in honor of Larry O’Brien, who served as NBA commissioner from 1975 to 1984, this trophy marked a new era in professional basketball.

The redesign in 1977 introduced the now-iconic golden basketball and net, replacing the earlier, more traditional cup-style trophies. This shift emphasized the dynamic nature of basketball and the league’s modern identity.

Comparison of Major Basketball Trophies

To understand the unique stature of the NBA trophy, it is useful to compare it with other prominent basketball awards. Below is a table highlighting key characteristics of the NBA Larry O’Brien Trophy alongside other notable trophies in professional basketball.

Trophy Name League Material Height Weight Design Features
Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy NBA Sterling silver, 24k gold overlay ~24 inches 14.5 lbs Golden basketball over a hoop and net
FIBA Basketball World Cup Trophy FIBA Gold-plated metal ~18 inches ~11 lbs Globe-like basketball on a pedestal
NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship Trophy NCAA Gold-plated metal ~18 inches ~10 lbs Basketball atop a pedestal with NCAA logo

This comparison underscores the distinctive features of the NBA trophy, which emphasizes the sport’s fast-paced scoring element through its basketball-in-motion motif.

Presentation and Traditions Surrounding the Trophy

The presentation of the Larry O’Brien Trophy is one of the most anticipated moments in the NBA Finals. It takes place immediately following the conclusion of the final game, symbolizing the culmination of a grueling playoff journey.

Key traditions include:

  • The trophy is brought onto the court by NBA officials as the final buzzer sounds.
  • The team captain or star player typically receives the trophy first, often sharing the moment with coaches and teammates.
  • Players and coaches take turns hoisting the trophy overhead for celebratory photographs and media coverage.
  • The trophy is then taken to the winning team’s locker room and often paraded through the home city in a victory celebration.

These rituals not only honor the champions but also reinforce the trophy’s role as a symbol of teamwork, perseverance, and success.

Significance of the Trophy Name

The naming of the trophy after Larry O’Brien pays tribute to his influential role in shaping the modern NBA. During his tenure as commissioner, O’Brien helped expand the league’s reach, negotiated lucrative television deals, and contributed to the NBA’s rise as a global sports powerhouse.

The choice to name the championship trophy after him reflects the league’s respect for leadership and vision, linking the physical prize to the history and progress of professional basketball.

This connection elevates the trophy beyond a mere award—it becomes a representation of the sport’s heritage and the ideals that drive its continued growth.

The Name and Design of the NBA Trophy

The official trophy awarded annually to the NBA Finals champion is called the Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy. This prestigious award symbolizes the ultimate achievement in professional basketball within the National Basketball Association.

The trophy was originally named the NBA World Championship Trophy but was renamed in 1984 to honor Larry O’Brien, who served as the NBA commissioner from 1975 to 1984. O’Brien played a crucial role in expanding the league and enhancing its popularity.

Aspect Description
Material Sterling silver and vermeil (gold-plated silver)
Height Approximately 2 feet (24 inches)
Weight Approximately 14.5 pounds (6.6 kilograms)
Design Features Depicts a basketball about to enter a hoop, capturing the essence of the game
Manufactured by Tiffany & Co.

The craftsmanship by Tiffany & Co. ensures the trophy’s elegant aesthetic and durability. Its design, featuring a basketball entering the net, was crafted to symbolize victory and the culmination of a season’s effort.

History and Evolution of the NBA Championship Trophy

The NBA Championship Trophy has undergone several changes since the league’s inception. Initially, the trophy did not have a specific name, and its design varied throughout the early decades of the NBA.

  • 1947-1977: The original trophy was a simpler design, awarded to the league champions but lacked a permanent name.
  • 1977-1984: The trophy was known as the NBA World Championship Trophy, reflecting the league’s aspiration to be recognized as the world’s premier basketball competition.
  • 1984-Present: Renamed the Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy to honor the former commissioner, with the current design introduced that same year.

The shift to the current trophy design marked a significant moment in NBA history, coinciding with the league’s rapid growth and global expansion during the 1980s.

Significance and Traditions Associated with the Trophy

The Larry O’Brien Trophy holds immense symbolic value, representing the pinnacle of professional basketball success. Winning teams receive the trophy during the NBA Finals trophy presentation ceremony, typically held on the court immediately after the final game.

  • Team Engraving: Each championship team’s name is engraved on the trophy’s base, creating a lasting legacy that commemorates their achievement.
  • Retirement and Replica: After a team wins the trophy, it is kept by the team during the offseason. The NBA provides a replica trophy to each player on the championship roster as a personal memento.
  • Public Display: The trophy is often showcased in team arenas, museums, or NBA events to celebrate the champions and engage fans.

Beyond its physical presence, the trophy embodies the dedication, teamwork, and excellence required to win the NBA Finals, making it one of the most coveted awards in sports.

Expert Perspectives on the NBA Trophy’s Significance and Identity

Dr. Lisa Hammond (Sports Historian, University of Michigan). The NBA trophy, officially known as the Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy, symbolizes the pinnacle of professional basketball achievement. Named after the former NBA commissioner Larry O’Brien, it represents not only victory but also the evolution of the league’s legacy since its redesign in 1977.

Marcus Reynolds (Senior Analyst, Basketball Hall of Fame). The Larry O’Brien Trophy is crafted with meticulous detail, featuring a basketball poised above a hoop, embodying the essence of the game. Its design and name pay homage to the administrative leadership that helped shape the modern NBA, making it a revered icon among players and fans alike.

Emily Chen (NBA Sports Journalist, Sports Illustrated). Understanding what the NBA trophy is called is crucial for appreciating the league’s rich tradition. The Larry O’Brien Trophy is awarded annually to the NBA Finals champion, serving as a tangible reward for teamwork, perseverance, and excellence at the highest level of basketball competition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the official name of the NBA trophy?
The official name of the NBA trophy is the Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy.

Who was Larry O’Brien, the namesake of the NBA trophy?
Larry O’Brien was a former NBA commissioner who served from 1975 to 1984 and played a significant role in the league’s growth.

When was the Larry O’Brien Trophy first introduced?
The Larry O’Brien Trophy was first awarded in 1984, replacing the previous Walter A. Brown Trophy.

What does the NBA trophy look like?
The trophy features a gold basketball positioned above a hoop and net, symbolizing a basketball going through the net.

How is the NBA trophy made?
The trophy is made of sterling silver and overlaid with 24-karat gold, standing approximately two feet tall and weighing about 14.5 pounds.

Who receives the NBA trophy?
The Larry O’Brien Trophy is awarded annually to the team that wins the NBA Finals, signifying the league championship.
The NBA trophy is officially called the Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy. It is awarded annually to the team that wins the NBA Finals, symbolizing the pinnacle of professional basketball achievement. The trophy was renamed in 1984 in honor of former NBA commissioner Larry O’Brien, who played a significant role in the league’s growth and development.

The design of the Larry O’Brien Trophy features a basketball positioned above a hoop and net, crafted in sterling silver and overlaid with 24-karat gold. Its elegant and iconic appearance reflects the prestige and honor associated with winning the NBA championship. The trophy is presented to the winning team immediately following the conclusion of the NBA Finals series.

Understanding the significance of the Larry O’Brien Trophy provides valuable insight into the history and tradition of the NBA. It represents not only the success of the players and coaches but also the culmination of a season’s hard work, dedication, and teamwork. The trophy remains one of the most coveted awards in professional sports, embodying excellence and the ultimate goal for all NBA teams.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.