Adam Silver responds to NBA Finals digital decals controversy
The decal debate continues.
During Wednesday night's 'NBA Countdown' on ABC, NBA commissioner Adam Silver responded to criticism of the digitally inserted images of the Larry O'Brien Trophy shown on the court during the broadcast of Game 2 of the NBA Finals.
Silver dropped a bombshell when he told viewers that these digital decals have been in use for 10 years.
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'People don't realize that they [the on-court decals] went away a decade ago,' Silver said.
There has been over the atmosphere on TV during the NBA Finals, and some have suggested that the league should revive the on-court decals featuring the Finals trophy to make the game feel more special.
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But Silver said that will not be happening anytime soon because of previous complaints from players.
'There were claims that…they were slippery.' Silver added. 'So, we're back to adding them virtually.'
While, in theory, the idea of virtual decals is good, it all comes down to the execution. And, at least according to fans on social media, it was executed terribly.
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During Game 2 of the Finals, some complained that the decals were glitchy and low-resolution.
'Looks like the @NBA got the memo about fans wanting more visuals of the #NBAFinals insignia and Larry OB, but superimposing a digital image isn't the answer,' another person wrote on X.
But amid the many comments slamming the NBA's lack of effort were some interesting ideas if on-court decals were a no-go.
Close-up of the CGI decals fans were treated with on Wednesday
@awfulannouncing/X
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Many pointed to the custom courts during the NBA Cup as something the league could employ during the Finals.
During the in-season tournament, the NBA had 30 custom courts designed and in use, which is something some fans think could work for the Finals — especially if the 'slippery' decals are a worry.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver speaks to the media during a press conference before the Pacers' Game 1 win over the Thunder in the NBA Finals on June 5, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City.
NBAE via Getty Images
But with Game 4 set for Friday night, don't be surprised if the digital trophy rears its head again.
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