In the world of sports, it’s widely believed that the silhouette on the NBA logo is none other than Jerry West, yet the NBA has never officially confirmed it. Speculations abound, citing reasons from the league’s desire for universality to concerns about royalties. Alan Siegel, the logo’s designer, proposed that the NBA aimed for an iconic symbol rather than one tied to a specific player, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Jerry West himself, despite being the likely inspiration, expressed discomfort with the idea of being forever linked to the logo. In a candid interview with ESPN, he mentioned how he wished the association had never become public, despite acknowledging the flattering nature of the recognition. West, who passed away recently at 86, maintained this stance throughout his life.
During his illustrious career, West not only excelled as a player and coach but also made significant impacts as a general manager for the Los Angeles Lakers, contributing to their success with strategic decisions that brought stars like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal to the team. His tenure extended to roles with the Memphis Grizzlies, Los Angeles Clippers, and Golden State Warriors, where his influence on the sport continued to be felt.
Although former NBA commissioners and officials never formally acknowledged West as the logo, current commissioner Adam Silver hinted at the obvious resemblance. This ongoing intrigue adds to the legacy of a sports icon whose impact transcended the basketball court, shaping the NBA’s history and culture in profound ways.
As discussions persist over the logo’s identity, one thing remains clear: Jerry West’s legacy extends far beyond a mere symbol, leaving an indelible mark on basketball and sports history alike.
Leave a Reply