What happened when Stanley Cup met the Larry O'Brien Trophy, Commissioner's Trophy and Philip F. Anschutz Trophy?

When the Stanley Cup and the NBA's Larry O'Brien Trophy found themselves in the same vicinity, history was made as these iconic sports trophies met alongside MLB's Commissioner's Trophy and the MLS' Philip F. Anschutz Trophy.

The prestigious gathering took place at Katz's Delicatessen in the bustling city of New York. Philip Pritchard, the esteemed Keeper of the Cup, took to Twitter to share a captivating snapshot of this momentous occasion.

The anticipation leading up to this extraordinary meeting was palpable, as the Stanley Cup playfully hinted at the upcoming lunch with Larry. The NBA trophy had recently unveiled its bucket list, and one of its most coveted desires was to cross paths with none other than Lord Stanley himself. It appears that dreams do come true, even for inanimate objects of such stature.

The convergence of these remarkable trophies marked a rare and extraordinary event. The Stanley Cup, with its rich history and engraved names of past champions, stood tall as a symbol of hockey excellence. The Larry O'Brien Trophy, a coveted prize in the world of basketball, represented the triumph of NBA champions.

Joining this prestigious duo were the Commissioner's Trophy from Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy from Major League Soccer (MLS). These trophies embodied the passion and teamwork displayed by baseball and soccer champions.

Katz's Delicatessen, a legendary establishment known for its delectable fare and nostalgic ambience, served as the backdrop for this auspicious gathering. The clinking of silverware and animated conversations filled the air as these iconic symbols of athletic excellence shared a table.

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History of the Stanley Cup and how it's design evolved

Since its humble beginnings in 1892, the Stanley Cup has transformed into the most renowned sports trophy worldwide, captivating the hearts of hockey players and fans alike. Originally purchased for a mere $50 by Lord Stanley of Preston, Sir Frederick Arthur Stanley, the Cup has evolved over the years from a simple bowl into a towering 3-foot-high trophy.

In 1924, a decision was made to engrave the names of the championship team's players each season, leading to the addition of bands below the bowl. This change prevented players from carving their names into the Cup, a practice that had occurred in the past.

The Cup's design was further refined in 1939, resulting in a long, cigar-shaped trophy. Then, in 1948, it became a two-piece trophy with a wide, barrel-shaped base and a removable bowl and collar. The current iteration, introduced in 1958, features a ceremonial bowl atop three tiered bands, a collar, and five uniform bands at the base.