The buzz surrounding the NBA Finals often seems to lean heavily on the spectacle of the game itself, but as we witnessed in the exhilarating Game 1 between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, there’s room for improvement in the presentation. While fans bristle at the notion that the Finals feel like just another regular-season match, there are tweaks that could infuse the games with the gravity they deserve.
One of the most talked-about points this postseason has been the absence of the NBA Finals logo on the court. Back in 2014, the league decided to forgo the large decal for player safety. While that’s a valid concern, there’s certainly an opportunity to bring back a smaller Finals logo—perhaps a sleek, elegant “Finals” script somewhere on the court. Particularly for fans watching from home, a digital overlay of that logo would significantly enhance the viewing experience. After all, when the court looks special, the game feels special, and right now, what we see is more advertisements than hallmark Finals imagery.
Not to mention, the patch on each player’s jersey that denotes their participation in the Finals feels a bit like an afterthought. If the league took a cue from college football and opted for a bolder patch on the shoulder, we’d not only see the significance of the event emphasized but also add a touch of class to the jerseys—after all, these moments deserve better than minimal acknowledgment.
Another key aspect of elevating the Finals experience is engaging the crowd and television audiences alike with live introductions of the starting lineups. Introducing players with the kind of flair you would expect from a grand finals match-up can create a palpable energy. Imagine the sounds of the Oklahoma City crowd reacting to their hometown stars or booing opponents—these moments connect viewers with the atmosphere and drama of the game. For younger fans who might not be as familiar with these rising stars, this is a chance to put a name to a face in a way that makes the game feel more intimate and exciting.
Speaking of excitement, Shaquille O’Neal’s recent cameo during the broadcast was a highlight worth amplifying. With Shaq and his “Inside The NBA” crew making the jump to ESPN next season, there’s an opportunity to inject some of that spontaneity into the Finals. His unexpected crash into the pre-game set brought a flavor that contrasted with the more straightforward presentation often seen. Elevating that essence with regular appearances from him during the game or at halftime can capture the authenticity and camaraderie fans love. Keeping the energy alive with Shaq’s insights from his courtside seat would resonate not just with devoted fans but also serve as a teaser for the exciting things to come.
As we look forward to Game 2 and beyond, the NBA and ESPN have ample opportunities to enhance the spectacle that is the Finals. With a few strategic changes in presentation, they can create a richer experience that not only honors the players and teams involved but also invigorates the fandom surrounding this championship series.
