Historic Milestone: Tyrese Haliburton Named New Face of NBA Logo by League President
In a groundbreaking move, Tyrese Haliburton becomes the new symbol of the NBA, reshaping history and redefining greatness for future generations.
In what is being hailed as one of the most significant moments in the history of professional basketball, NBA President Malcolm Jefferson announced today that Indiana Pacers superstar Tyrese Haliburton will become the new silhouette for the iconic NBA logo. The decision marks a historic shift—one that not only celebrates Haliburton’s meteoric rise but also signals a bold new era for the league.
“Tyrese represents everything the modern NBA stands for—skill, leadership, character, and innovation,” Jefferson stated during the televised press conference in New York City. “As we look toward the future, we want a symbol that reflects where the game is going, not just where it’s been. Tyrese Haliburton is that future.”
The decision ends decades of speculation and subtle debates surrounding the original logo, which many believed featured Jerry West, though the NBA never officially confirmed it. While the classic logo served the league well for over 50 years, Jefferson said the time was right for a transformation that resonates with new generations of fans and players alike.
From Iowa to Icon
Tyrese Haliburton’s journey to becoming the face of the NBA is nothing short of extraordinary. Born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and starring at Iowa State, Haliburton entered the league as the 12th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft. Though considered a “high-IQ player” with a unique skillset, few foresaw the kind of impact he would have on the game within just five years.
Since joining the Indiana Pacers in a blockbuster trade in 2022, Haliburton has redefined the role of the modern point guard. Known for his court vision, efficiency, and unselfish play, he quickly became the centerpiece of a young, hungry Pacers squad. His breakout 2024–25 season, which saw him average 23 points and 12 assists per game, propelled Indiana to the Eastern Conference Finals and won him the league’s first-ever “Basketball Genius” award—an honor created to recognize holistic influence beyond stats.
But more than his on-court excellence, it’s Haliburton’s leadership, humility, and infectious energy that won over fans, teammates, and league executives. In a social media age often dominated by controversy and bravado, Haliburton stood out for his authenticity and love of the game.
The New Logo
The unveiling of the new logo occurred moments after the announcement. The design—crafted by world-renowned artist and former NBA player Desmond Lee—features a sleek silhouette of Haliburton in his signature no-look pass motion, one foot off the ground, eyes pointed toward the horizon. It’s a dynamic, fluid image meant to symbolize creativity, vision, and forward motion.
“The pass isn’t just a pass,” Lee explained. “It’s a statement. It says ‘I see you. We’re in this together.’ That’s what Tyrese brings to the game.”
Initial fan reactions were overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms lit up with excitement, with hashtags like #HaliburtonLogo and #NewNBAEra trending worldwide within minutes. Several players across the league—including stars like Luka Dončić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Victor Wembanyama—voiced their support.
“I love it,” said Dončić during a postgame interview. “Tyrese earned this. He’s a great player, but more importantly, a great human being.”
A Bold New Chapter
While some traditionalists expressed skepticism about changing a symbol so steeped in history, NBA historians and culture commentators welcomed the move. Dr. Laila Freeman, a professor of sports sociology at Howard University, called the decision “courageous and necessary.”
“The old logo represented excellence in its time, but symbols must evolve,” Freeman said. “Tyrese Haliburton reflects the inclusive, forward-thinking, and collaborative spirit of the 21st-century NBA. It’s not just a rebrand—it’s a renaissance.”
Indeed, the NBA has been undergoing significant changes in recent years—from embracing player activism and mental health advocacy to expanding its global reach through grassroots programs and international tournaments. Jefferson hinted that the Haliburton logo is just one piece of a larger initiative aimed at re-centering the league around community, innovation, and inclusion.
“We don’t just want to be a sports league,” he said. “We want to be a cultural force that inspires people to dream bigger.”
Haliburton Responds
Visibly emotional and surrounded by friends, family, and teammates, Haliburton took the stage after the reveal and delivered a heartfelt speech that left many in tears.
“I’m beyond honored,” he said. “Never in my wildest dreams did I think a kid from Oshkosh, who just loved passing the ball, would end up on the NBA logo. But this isn’t about me. It’s about all the kids out there who don’t fit the mold, who lead differently, who see the game—and the world—through a different lens. This is for them.”
He dedicated the moment to his late grandfather, a lifelong basketball fan who encouraged Tyrese to always “play with joy.”
“My grandpa used to tell me, ‘Don’t play the game. Feel it.’ I hope this logo reminds people to feel the game again.”
Looking Ahead
The new logo will begin rolling out across all NBA merchandise, broadcasts, and digital platforms starting with the 2025–26 season. Special edition jerseys featuring the updated symbol are already available for pre-order, and a documentary chronicling Haliburton’s rise—titled Passing Greatness—is set to premiere on NBA TV next month.
While the full impact of this decision will unfold in the years to come, one thing is clear: the NBA has chosen not only a face but a philosophy.
Tyrese Haliburton’s elevation to logo status isn’t just a nod to talent—it’s a tribute to vision, empathy, and evolution.
And as fans around the world celebrate this new chapter, Haliburton remains characteristically grounded.
“I’m just happy to be part of the story,” he said. “Let’s write a good one.”
