LA Clippers Unveil Massive Rebrand with New Logo and Jerseys
In a bold move to revamp their image, the LA Clippers have unveiled a massive rebrand that includes new logos and jerseys. The team’s owner, Steve Ballmer, has been determined to transform the franchise since he purchased it in 2014. From considering a name change to exploring new colors and logos, Ballmer and his team have left no stone unturned in their quest for a fresh identity.
The Clippers’ recent success on the court has only fueled their desire for change. After years of mediocrity, the team has emerged as a contender in the league, reaching the conference finals in 2021 for the first time in franchise history. With stars like Kawhi Leonard and Paul George leading the way, the Clippers have become a force to be reckoned with.
One thing that became clear from fan surveys conducted by the team was the strong attachment fans had to the name “Clippers.” Despite suggestions of a potential name change, fans expressed “outright hostility” towards such a move. This feedback resonated with Ballmer, who decided to keep the name but give it a fresh new look.
The team’s current logo, which has been criticized as generic and bland, was in dire need of an upgrade. Ballmer wanted a monogram-style mark that would have international appeal. Fans expressed their liking for a semi-stacked “LA” mark, with the “A” sitting atop and within the lower leg of the capital “L.” This concept formed the basis for the team’s new primary icon, which combines elements of a compass and a naval ship.
The color scheme of the rebrand remains true to the Clippers’ traditional colors, with an emphasis on navy blue. The ship in the logo is designed to look menacing, as if it were coming straight at you. The team also took precautions to avoid any potential copyright issues with the Seattle Mariners, who use compass imagery in their art.
The Clippers’ new court at the Intuit Dome, their upcoming arena, will prominently feature the new logo. In a fun touch, the “N” in “Angeles” on the court points due north. The overall look of the court is minimalist and sleek, reflecting the team’s desire for a modern aesthetic.
The team’s new jerseys follow a similar theme of simplicity and cleanliness. The general upward, scripted “Clippers” wordmark remains, but with a sharper font. The team opted for “Los Angeles” instead of “Clippers” on their statement edition jersey, with the shortened “Clips” on the waistband. The jerseys feature subtle nods to the team’s naval origins, such as nautical flags representing “LAC.”
While the rebrand is a significant change for the Clippers, it is just one part of a larger transformation. The team will be moving to the Intuit Dome next season, which promises state-of-the-art technology and fan-focused features. From a dedicated fan section called The Wall to countdown clocks in the concourse, the Clippers are determined to create an immersive and exciting experience for their supporters.
Overall, the Clippers’ rebrand represents a new era for the franchise. With a fresh logo, sleek jerseys, and a state-of-the-art arena on the horizon, the team is ready to make its mark in the NBA. The focus is on forward momentum and direction, as fans have expressed their optimism about the team’s future under Ballmer’s ownership. As the Clippers continue to build on their recent success, their new look will undoubtedly become iconic in the years to come.