The trophy awarded to the winning team of the NBA Finals is named the Larry O’Brien Trophy. From 1947 to 1976, the NBA champion also received the Walter A. Brown Trophy, but since 1977 the league has presented the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, named for former NBA commissioner Larry O’Brien. Each year, the custom-designed, gold-plated trophy is awarded on the night of Game 6 or Game 7 at the closing ceremony of the Finals. The winning team holds the trophy for one year, and a new base is added for each championship, with plaques recording each team’s victory.
Origins of the NBA Championship Trophy
The history of the NBA championship trophy involves two distinct trophies across league history. The original was the Walter A. Brown Trophy, introduced to symbolize the championship after the league recognized the need for a dedicated prize. After the merger with the ABA and through 1976, that trophy was awarded. In 1977, the league introduced what became known as the Larry O’Brien Trophy to honor the commissioner who served from 1975 to 1984. Understanding the shift from the Walter A. Brown Trophy to the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy clarifies confusion about the NBA championship trophy name over time.
Design and Specifications of the Larry O’Brien Trophy
The Larry O’Brien Trophy is a classic sterling silver trophy with a gold plating, featuring a basketball poised between two rims. The design highlights the sport’s essential element, the ball, while the structure emphasizes balance and precision. Below the basketball, a supportive base displays plaques for each champion. While the exact weight and height are often cited in league materials, the trophy’s most defining characteristic is its integration of a rotating base that allows champions to add a new layer for every title. This design ensures the trophy remains both iconic and functional as a long-term commemorative object.
Key Attributes at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Current Official Name | Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy | NBA League Office |
| Material and Finish | Silver with gold plating | NBA Media Guidelines |
| Presented Since | 1977 | NBA Historical Records |
| Namesake | Larry O’Brien, NBA Commissioner (1975–1984) | NBA Public Affairs |
| Distinguishing Feature | Expanding base with champion plaques | NBA Trophy Handbook |
The Commissioner’s Trophy: What It Is and How It Differs
While the Larry O’Brien Trophy is the prize for the NBA Finals champion, the Commissioner’s Trophy is awarded to the winning team of the All-Star Game. The Commissioner’s Trophy is distinct in design, smaller in size, and has been used for the All-Star Game since 1963. Confusion between the two trophies is common, but noting that the NBA championship trophy name refers specifically to the Larry O’Brien Trophy helps differentiate the season-ending Finals prize from the midseason All-Star event award.
Presentation Traditions and Annual Ceremony
Each NBA Finals concludes with a trophy presentation that follows a consistent structure. The winning team gathers on the court as the Larry O’Brien Trophy is hoisted, and players, coaches, and executives deliver short remarks. The current design supports the addition of new plaques, allowing the trophy to evolve each season. This recurring ritual reinforces the continuity of the award and the legacy of past champions, making the trophy presentation one of the league’s most recognized annual moments.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The Larry O’Brien Trophy has become synonymous with excellence in professional basketball. Its presence in media coverage, championship parades, and year-round exhibitions reinforces the identity of the NBA as a premier global sports league. Teams treat the trophy as both a symbol of achievement and a motivational artifact for future seasons. The clear association of the trophy with Larry O’Brien ensures that the legacy of the former commissioner remains tied to the highest standard of the sport.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the official name of the NBA championship trophy?
- Why was the trophy renamed after Larry O’Brien?
- How often is a new base added to the trophy?
- Is the Commissioner’s Trophy the same as the Larry O’Brien Trophy?
- Which team has the most plaques on the trophy base?
Summary
The NBA championship trophy name refers to the Larry O’Brien Trophy, officially presented to the NBA Finals champion since 1977. Designed with a gold-plated silver finish and an expanding base, the trophy honors the former commissioner and provides a lasting record of each champion. Distinct from the Commissioner’s Trophy, it remains the most prestigious award in professional basketball and an enduring symbol of team excellence.