NBA Champs Take Shine To Jeweler

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The NBA championship returned to Los Angeles this year – well, kind of.

Of course, neither the Lakers nor the Clippers hoisted the Larry O’Brien Trophy in 2015. But Jason of Beverly Hills has been commissioned to create the rings for this year’s National Basketball Association champs, the Golden State Warriors.

Founded in 2002 by Jason Arasheben, the company broke into the championship ring business when it designed the bling for the Lakers after their 2009 finals win, the result of a friendship between Arasheben and Jesse Buss, Lakers’ director of scouting and son of late team owner Jerry Buss. The firm also designed the ring for the Lakers repeat victory in 2010.

“We had a strong hold in the L.A. area,” Arasheben said. “When it was time to put in our hats, they gave us a chance.”

This year, the boutique jewelry store was one of seven jewelers to bid for the contract, competing with such giants as Tiffany & Co.

Arasheben said this year’s ring will be less of an everyday piece and more of “a storytelling piece” that represents the team’s historic season.

“It’s a very personal piece, which is unlike the championship trophy or banner,” he said. “This is something they have until they’re old and gray.”

The ring will be unveiled Oct. 27 at the Warriors’ first home game, and Arasheben will be in attendance.

“That’s the real reward – when you see all the players’ faces opening that box.”

– Grace Goodrich

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