The NBA has unveiled an impressive array of trophies for its first-ever In-Season Tournament, headlined by the majestic NBA Cup. Crafted by the renowned artisans at Tiffany & Co., in collaboration with artist Victor Solomon, the NBA Cup stands as a beacon of achievement and the centerpiece of the new tournament's awards.
The NBA Cup: A New Symbol of Excellence
At 23 inches tall, the NBA Cup is a stunning fusion of tradition and modernity. Its gold and black design elements not only echo the legacy of the NBA's storied past but also introduce a bold aesthetic specifically chosen for this tournament. The trophy's sterling silver body is adorned with a luxurious coating of 24-karat gold vermeil, complemented by sleek black ceramic—a combination never before seen in the league's trophy collection.
The base of the NBA Cup features intricate net details, seamlessly blending the design motifs from both the Eastern and Western Conference Championship Trophy bases. Underneath, the NBA In-Season Tournament event logo proudly signifies the trophy's unique purpose.
Honoring the MVP
The Most Valuable Player of the tournament will be recognized with their own distinct honor—the In-Season Tournament MVP Trophy. Standing 15 inches high to represent the 15 teams in each conference, this award features two stems, symbolizing the final contest between two teams striving for the championship title.
Recognition for the Champions
In a nod to the collective effort required to win a championship, every player on the winning team will receive a medal. These medals are not only a personal memento but also a testament to their success, bearing the "NBA In-Season Tournament Champions" inscription along with the year of triumph. On the reverse, the medals showcase a silhouette of the NBA Cup, flanked by tournament brackets and highlighted by four balls representing the semifinal contenders in Las Vegas.
All-Tournament Team Accolades
A panel of esteemed media members will have the responsibility of selecting the All-Tournament Team, comprising the five standout players who demonstrate superior skill and performance throughout the competition. These elite athletes will be awarded trophies featuring a solid black crystal basketball with gold channels, one of which includes a bracket motif to honor the tournament's format.
Competition Update
On the court, the Indiana Pacers have claimed a spot in the East semifinals after a commanding 122-112 victory over the Boston Celtics. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans punched their ticket to the semifinals with a 127-117 win against the Sacramento Kings.
The semifinal matchups will soon be set as the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Phoenix Suns and the Milwaukee Bucks face off against the New York Knicks. The East and West semifinals are scheduled for Thursday, December 7, with the grand finale taking place on Saturday, December 9.
Fanfare and Festivities
Beyond the hardwood, Toshiba Plaza will transform into a hub of fan activities during the tournament. Attendees can marvel at the life-size NBA Cup trophy, indulge in exclusive merchandise, and participate in interactive basketball-themed games.
Adding to the excitement, music legends Nelly and TLC will perform in a unique show between the semifinal games. As part of "The Sum: All-Star Music Battle," a new reality competition, these artists will engage in a vocal showdown. Fans over the age of 18 have the opportunity to join TLC or Nelly on stage, adding another layer of entertainment to the tournament festivities.
As the NBA continues to innovate and expand its global reach, this In-Season Tournament, with its distinctive trophies and engaging fan experiences, marks another step forward in the evolution of the league and its storied traditions.
