Jerry West's Legacy: The Inspiration Behind the NBA's Iconic Logo

Legendary Lakers Star's Silhouette Immortalized in Basketball History

After decades of speculation, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has confirmed what many have long known: Jerry West, the legendary Los Angeles Lakers player and executive who passed away at 86, was the inspiration for the league's iconic logo.

Origin of the Logo

The NBA's logo, featuring a silhouette of a player in the middle of a dribble move, has been synonymous with basketball for generations. However, the identity of the player depicted in the logo has remained a mystery. In 2010, Alan Siegel, the designer who created the logo in 1969, admitted to the Los Angeles Times that Jerry West was the model for the silhouette.

Discrepancy and Denial

Despite the obvious resemblance between the logo and West, former NBA Commissioner David Stern consistently denied that the Lakers legend was the inspiration for the logo. For three decades, Stern maintained this position, even though many observers believed otherwise.

Confirmation and Legacy

With West's passing, Silver has finally set the record straight. "Jerry West's contributions to the game of basketball are immeasurable," said Silver. "As the inspiration for the NBA's logo, his legacy will forever be etched in the fabric of our sport."

Conclusion

Jerry West's death has not only marked the passing of a basketball icon but has also brought to light the enduring legacy of his influence on the game. The NBA's logo, with its silhouette of the legendary player, serves as a timeless tribute to his exceptional skill and contributions to the sport. As fans and observers remember Jerry West, his image will forever be intertwined with the very identity of basketball itself.