The Portland Trailblazers
Souvenir Cup | 2025
This collaboration has been exceptionally rewarding. Since relocating to Portland, I’ve long aspired to contribute to this organization, and a mutual connection with Weinland Creative made that opportunity possible. One of my first assignments surpassed my expectations. While I initially had reservations about creating the artwork on such a high-profile, client-facing asset, Koji and his team provided clear aesthetic direction and entrusted me with developing the illustration style and overall design for the 24-25 souvenir, available at all home Blazer games.
Design Director | Koji
Art Direction | Rory Brown
Production | Pinata
Photography | Columbia in house team
Process:
The initial direction was to build on last year's cup design, which prominently featured Blaze the Trailcat. Recognizing that the Blazers have now introduced a new mascot, Douglas Fur—making them one of the few NBA teams with two active mascots—I saw an opportunity to create a connection between the two. This approach not only enriches the design but also helps educate fans about the new mascot. Below are last years cup.
Round 1:
I initially combined the two mascots on the cup to create a positive narrative and introduce fans to the new addition. While the concept was well received, feedback indicated that it too closely resembled last year’s design. Koji and I then pivoted, and I leveraged my signature illustration style to develop a vibrant Portland cityscape theme. By incorporating elements like the iconic mountains and trees, the design celebrates the Trailblazers as Portland’s team, resonating with every local fan.
Second and Final Round:
I initially combined the two mascots on the cup to create a positive narrative and introduce fans to the new addition. While the concept was well received, feedback indicated that it too closely resembled last year’s design. Koji and I then pivoted, and I leveraged my signature illustration style to develop a vibrant Portland cityscape theme. By incorporating elements like the iconic mountains and trees, the design celebrates the Trailblazers as Portland’s team, resonating with every local fan.
Finished Product:
And of course, in the end, our alternative version colorway was selected to be the actual artwork. Super fun project.