When you buy through the links on our website, we might receive an affiliate commission. Here’s the explanation of the process. Special edition logos have become commonplace in various sports leagues, often used to commemorate anniversaries or significant events. However, few logos are as creative or significant as the new Toronto Raptors logo created for the basketball team’s Indigenous Heritage Game on January 6.
The logo maintains its recognizable shape with the clever claw and basketball design, but has been modified to incorporate distinctive Indigenous-inspired artwork. It might even make it onto our list of the top NBA logos.
The special Raptors logo was designed by Luke Swinson, an illustrator and muralist from Kitchener. Luke is of Anishinaabe descent and is a member of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. His logo depicts two Indigenous people playing basketball against the backdrop of a setting sun, with an eagle soaring above a flowing river.
The illustration is rich in symbolism, as each element carries specific meanings within Indigenous traditions. Water symbolizes life, while eagles signify a link to the spiritual realm. Additionally, the background of the logo showcases the four sacred medicines: tobacco, sage, cedar, and sweetgrass. Luke explains that the overall intent of the piece is to embody Indigenous joy.
Luke expresses that he views his colorful art as a personal journey into his heritage and aspires for it to inspire younger generations to reconnect with their cultural roots. The design offers a refreshing departure from the typical themes found in sports logos, and it would be wonderful to see this initiative evolve into a tradition. Other NBA teams might also consider joining in on this effort.
The Toronto Raptors’ Indigenous Heritage Game against the Milwaukee Bucks is scheduled to take place at Scotiabank Arena on Monday, January 6. For more updates on logo design, check out the innovative new logo design for British Airways Club.
Joe is a freelance journalist and editor at Creative Bloq, where he regularly writes news articles, features, and buying guides while staying updated on the top equipment and software for creatives, including video editing tools, monitors, and accessories. With extensive experience as a news writer and photographer, he currently serves as a project manager at Hermana Creatives, a design, production, and branding agency located in London and Buenos Aires. In this role, he oversees a team of designers, photographers, and video editors focused on creating visual content and design assets for the hospitality industry. Additionally, he enjoys dancing Argentine tango.
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