NBA logos by the decade

 

1950s-1960s:

The logos during this time were relatively simple and often featured basic typography with the team's name.

Many logos incorporated basketball imagery such as a basketball or a basketball hoop.

Teams like the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers had logos that were more text-based, while others like the New York Knicks and Chicago Bulls started introducing simple graphics.

1970s:

The 1970s saw more experimentation with graphical elements in logos.

Some logos became more stylized and incorporated more dynamic typography.

The Portland Trail Blazers introduced one of the most iconic logos of the era with their pinwheel design.

1980s:

Logos in the 1980s became more vibrant and colorful.

Some teams introduced more intricate designs, often incorporating elements like stars and stripes.

The Houston Rockets' logo during this time featured a rocket ship, while the Detroit Pistons introduced their horse and basketball emblem.

1990s:

The 1990s saw a shift towards more modern and sleek designs.

Many logos were updated with cleaner typography and simplified graphics.

Some teams introduced entirely new logos during this decade, like the Toronto Raptors with their iconic dinosaur logo.

2000s:

Logos in the 2000s continued the trend of simplicity and modernization.

Some teams updated their logos to be more streamlined and digitally friendly.

The Memphis Grizzlies introduced their growling bear logo during this time, and the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets) debuted with their bobcat logo.

2010s:

The 2010s saw a mix of classic and modern design trends.

Many teams embraced minimalist design, often with flat graphics and bold typography.

Some teams, like the Milwaukee Bucks and Atlanta Hawks, underwent logo redesigns to reflect a more contemporary aesthetic.

2020s (up to 2022):

The 2020s continued the trend of minimalist design, with many teams focusing on clean, versatile logos that work well across various digital platforms.

Some teams introduced alternate logos and branding elements to appeal to younger audiences and engage fans on social media.

Keep in mind that while this overview captures general trends, individual team logos varied widely in style and design choices throughout each decade.