The Naismith Trophy is a special award given to the men's champion of the FIBA Basketball World Cup, named after the inventor of basketball, James Naismith. It was first awarded in 1967 to the winner of the FIBA World Championship. The current version of the trophy was introduced in 2019. It represents winning the FIBA Basketball World Cup and is presented by FIBA. Currently, Germany holds the trophy.
Since 1969, the Naismith Trophy has been a symbol of excellence in college basketball. Named after Dr. James Naismith, the founder of basketball, it represents more than just individual skill—it embodies qualities like dedication and sportsmanship. Over the years, the Naismith Trophy has become a prestigious honor, with each recipient joining a distinguished group of basketball legends. But have you ever wondered how big this trophy actually is? Let's dive into the size and design of this prestigious award in this blog.
The Magnitude of the Naismith Trophy
The Naismith Trophy is not just any ordinary trophy—it's a masterpiece crafted with precision and care. Made of 975/1000 sterling silver on the upper and lower parts, with the inside gold-plated and a 14-carat yellow gold middle part, this trophy is as valuable as it is precious. Standing at a towering height of 47 centimeters (18.5 inches) and weighing a hefty nine kilograms (20 lb), it's certainly not lightweight. The base, constructed from Rosa Porrino granite, measures 20 x 20 centimeters (7.9 inches), while the top of the cup boasts a circumference of 21 centimeters (8.3 inches). This trophy truly commands attention with its impressive size and weight.
A New Era of Naismith Trophy Design
In 2017, a new version of the Naismith Trophy was unveiled during the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qualifiers Draw Ceremonies. This updated version stands even taller at about 60 centimeters high and is made almost entirely out of gold, adding to its allure and prestige. Designed by the creative agency Radiant Studios Ltd and handcrafted by the skilled silversmith Thomas Lyte, this trophy represents a new era in the evolution of the Naismith Trophy's design. Featuring the names of previous World Cup champions at the base and FIBA's original name engraved at the trophy's "hoop," this version pays homage to the rich history of basketball while embracing modern aesthetics.
The Evolution of Naismith Trophy Design
The design journey of the Naismith Trophy dates back to its introduction in 1967 when it was awarded to the Soviet Union for its victory in the FIBA World Championship. Over the years, the trophy underwent several transformations, culminating in the unveiling of the 1998 version. Crafted by Goldsmith master Günter Schoebel, this version was inspired by the travels of long-time FIBA Secretary General Renato William Jones. This trophy symbolized unity and diversity on a global scale, featuring a lotus flower design at the top and a decagonal rotating middle piece adorned with carved maps of the continents and precious stones. Dr. Naismith's name engraved in multiple scripts showcased the universal appeal of basketball.
FAQ's On the Naismith Trophy
A. The Naismith Trophy was first awarded in 1967 to the winner of the FIBA World Championship.
A. The Naismith Trophy stands at 47 centimeters (18.5 inches) tall and weighs nine kilograms (20 lb).
A. The Naismith Trophy is made of sterling silver, gold plating, and Rosa Porrino granite for the base.
A. The current version of the Naismith Trophy was introduced in 2019.
A. The latest version of the Naismith Trophy was designed by the creative agency Radiant Studios Ltd.
