The iconic silhouette featured in the NBA's official logo is widely recognized as Jerry West, a legendary player for the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Man Behind the Emblem: Jerry West
Jerry West, often nicknamed "The Logo," is a seminal figure in NBA history. His distinctive dribbling pose, captured in a dynamic photograph, became the enduring symbol of the league.
- Player Accomplishments: West played his entire 14-year career (1960-1974) with the Los Angeles Lakers. He was a 14-time NBA All-Star, an NBA champion (1972), and the only player from a losing team to be named NBA Finals MVP (1969).
- Post-Playing Career: After retiring as a player, West continued his legacy in various executive roles, contributing to multiple championship teams with the Lakers and Golden State Warriors.
The Origin of the NBA Logo
The NBA logo was designed in 1969 by Alan Siegel, a brand consultant. Siegel's inspiration came from a striking photograph of Jerry West in action.
Key Details of the Logo's Creation:
- Source Photograph: The image of West used for the logo was taken by photographer Wen Roberts in 1969. It depicted West in a characteristic dribbling stance, embodying the athleticism and grace of the sport.
- Designer's Confirmation: In 2010, Alan Siegel openly confirmed that Jerry West was indeed the player whose likeness inspired the logo's design.
- League's Stance: While widely acknowledged and celebrated by fans, media, and even West himself, the NBA has never officially confirmed the identity of the player in the logo. This unofficial stance is reportedly to maintain a universal, timeless symbol that represents all players rather than a single individual. However, the connection to Jerry West is an open secret within the basketball world.
Why Jerry West's Image Endures
The enduring appeal of the NBA logo stems from several factors:
- Dynamic Pose: The silhouette perfectly captures the energy, movement, and skill central to basketball.
- Timeless Design: Its simplicity and clarity have allowed it to remain relevant and recognizable for over five decades without significant changes.
- Symbol of Excellence: The figure, representing an elite player like Jerry West, symbolizes the pinnacle of professional basketball.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject | Jerry West (Los Angeles Lakers legend) |
| Designer | Alan Siegel |
| Year Created | 1969 |
| Inspiration | Photograph by Wen Roberts depicting West dribbling |
| Significance | Enduring symbol of the NBA's athleticism and global appeal |
The NBA logo has become one of the most recognizable sports emblems worldwide, a testament to its design and the iconic figure it subtly features. For more information on Jerry West and his connection to the logo, you can visit the official NBA website.
