Even though the games in the 2025 NBA Finals have been exciting, ESPN and ABC’s TV coverage has received much criticism. Even before it began, many anticipated an exciting and showy presentation of basketball’s biggest competition, yet the use of graphics, branding, and overall appearance received harsh criticism from viewers.
A Normal Start to Game 1
When the Indiana Pacers faced the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game 1, many people felt that the broadcast presentation was just ordinary and dull. There was a lot of talk on social media about missing Finals-related branding during the broadcast and on TV. There were no NASCAR-themed graphics, digital signs, or clues on the court that broadcast a regular-season game. The match was not the high-flying event it was meant to be, instead seeming like regular footage of a midweek clash.
Many fans were perplexed and frustrated when they did not see the usual Caesar’s gladiator helmets once the logos had been missing. Traditionally, the road to the Finals is marked by strong visual hints. The lack of such things made this year’s Final games feel unexciting. Fans and commentators thought the breach was a sign that the organizers didn’t keep up to the standard required for a big event like this.
A Reactionary Attempt Was Made in Game 2
To address the criticism, digital images of the Larry O’Brien Trophy were displayed on the court during Game 2 by ESPN and ABC. On the other hand, the move resulted in even more laughter and criticism. Although the video game achievements were easy to get, many people called them low-quality with sharp corners and “ugly,” like graphics you’d expect from early 2000s video games on X (formerly Twitter).
The presentation was rather shaky all through the game as well. The digital trophies were gone from the court in the second quarter, and the court was instead decorated with just the overlay reading “NBA Finals presented by YouTube TV.” The trophies came back in the third quarter and then disappeared again in the fourth quarter. Such uneven graphic changes caused more negative comments, as users said they were confusing, did not serve a purpose, and brought shame to Apex.
Missing The Desired Growth and Changes
Physical decals on the hardwood have not been used since 2014, as a result of concerns for the players’ safety. Michael Carter-Williams’ slip in 2014 was the reason the league decided on the new rule. At the same time, products available on digital platforms had filled this need in the past with varying designs. By 2025, people wanted brands to compensate for the missing logos online, but the broadcasters did not meet these standards.
In addition, unlike past Finals where all the new looks debuted right away, this year the changes in Game 2 appeared poorly organized and rushed. Bomani Jones accurately portrayed what most people felt when he wrote, “Shaming was all it took to get these athletes to act on such an easy choice.”
What Leagues Are Doing Now and the Possible Future Results
Adam Silver first realized the importance of the trophy decals after watching the public’s reaction on social networks. Talking at the event, Silver admitted, “I feel nostalgic too… when you see the trophy or other hints, it reminds you that this particular event meant something special to you.”
The situation also leads many to worry about the relationship between sports organizations and viewers, as seeing things in images becomes so important today. Most people catch icons on TV or in clips on social media, which is why popular images stand out.
