Larry O’Brien trophy visits the Sharks as NBA Finals approach

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The iconic Larry O’Brien basketball NBA Championship Trophy made a special visit to Durban this month. The visit thrilled South African sports fans by dropping in on the Sharks rugby team.

This marks another exciting stop on the trophy’s global tour ahead of the 2025 NBA Finals, which tip off on 5 June.

BASKETBALL EXCELLENCE

The Larry O’Brien Trophy, a symbol of basketball excellence. It has been captivating fans worldwide as the NBA Playoffs enter their final, nail-biting stages.

The trophy itself is a masterpiece, crafted from nearly 16 pounds of sterling silver with a 24-karat gold overlay, according to the NBA.

Its design is elegant yet dynamic, etched to resemble a basketball net with a regulation-size ball perched on the rim.

HISTORY OF THE TROPHY

The trophy’s history dates back to 1978, when it replaced the Walter A. Brown Trophy.

In 1984, it was renamed in honour of Larry O’Brien, the NBA commissioner from 1975 to 1984. Larry played a pivotal role in expanding the league and introducing the three-point shot.

Larry O’Brien’s legacy is etched not only in the trophy but also in the growth of basketball worldwide.

BASKETBALL IN AFRICA

“Larry was a visionary who helped shape the NBA into the global phenomenon it is today,” said a spokesperson from NBA Africa.

“Having the trophy here in Durban is a testament to basketball’s expanding reach. It is the passion that inspires in South Africa.”

South African basketball fans have plenty to cheer for beyond the NBA Finals. The local team, Made By Basketball (MBB), is led by 1986 NBA champion Sam Vincent.

The team is gearing up for the Basketball Africa League’s (BAL) Nile Conference. The conference kicks off in Kigali on Saturday.

BASKETBALL AT SUNBET ARENA

MBB’s journey could bring top-tier basketball to South African soil during the BAL Playoffs and Finals at SunBet Arena in Pretoria from 6 to 14 June.

Tickets are available on Ticketmaster, priced affordably for local fans eager to witness high-level competition live.

“The Larry O’Brien Trophy’s visit energises our players and fans alike,” said Sam Vincent. “It’s a reminder of what’s possible with hard work and dedication.

We hope to bring that same spirit to the BAL and make South Africa proud.”

NBA FINALS

With the NBA Finals just around the corner and the BAL season heating up, basketball is firmly on the South African sports map.

The Larry O’Brien Trophy tour is a celebration of basketball’s growing influence and a call to fans to embrace the game’s excitement.

As the countdown to 5 June 5 continues, South African fans can look forward to thrilling NBA action on ESPN and NBA League Pass.

FOR THE LOVE OF SPORT

The Larry O’Brien Trophy’s visit to Durban is a shining example of basketball’s unifying power, inspiring a new generation of players and supporters across the continent.

In the words of a Sharks player who got to see the trophy up close: “Holding the Larry O’Brien Trophy felt surreal. It’s a symbol of greatness, and now it’s part of our story here in South Africa.”