How Many Larry O'Brien Trophies Exist
The NBA keeps a fixed set of Larry O'Brien NBA Championship Trophies for annual champions. The league currently has 17 active trophies, one for each team that has won the title since the trophy was renamed in 1984. The number does not change each season because the league reuses the same set of trophies rather than creating a new one every year. The current count reflects all winners through the most recent completed season, and the league updates the official records accordingly. For the latest details on the trophy and its history, see the official NBA page on the Larry O'Brien Trophy official NBA history.
Each trophy is a permanent asset of the league and is reused for future champions. The league maintains the set so that every new champion receives a polished trophy from the existing inventory. This design keeps the total number stable and avoids the need to manufacture a new trophy every year. The fixed inventory also simplifies logistics for the league and the trophy's custodian.
History of the Larry O'Brien Trophy
Origin and Renaming
The trophy was originally known as the Walter A. Brown Trophy and was introduced in 1947. In 1984, the NBA renamed it the Larry O'Brien NBA Championship Trophy to honor former league commissioner Larry O'Brien. The redesign created a new permanent set of trophies under the updated name. Since the renaming, the league has tracked champions using this single set of trophies.
Design and Physical Details
The trophy is a large silver basketball perched on a hoop and stand. It stands about 2 feet tall and weighs several pounds. The league keeps the trophy polished and ready for each Finals winner. The physical design has remained consistent since the 1984 renaming, with minor updates for durability and presentation.
Where the Larry O'Brien Trophies Are Displayed
League and Team Display
The NBA stores the main set of trophies at league headquarters and rotates them for championship celebrations. Winning teams receive a trophy for their arena and a replica for permanent display. The league also maintains a traveling trophy for media events and league showcases. This setup ensures the trophies are visible to fans while staying protected.
Recent Champions and Trophy Tours
Recent champions have taken part in city-wide trophy tours after winning the Finals. The league coordinates these tours to promote the NBA brand and engage fans. The trophy visits landmarks, arenas, and community events in the winning city. These tours are part of the league's standard post-championship programming.