Building on a multi-year creative partnership, we developed a visually rich show open and accompanying graphics that placed the celebration in a wintery cityscape, complemented by a serene, snow-covered field. The goal was to capture both the competitive spirit and the warmth of the holiday season, while staying true to the energy and pride of HBCU sports.
One of the early challenges, and highlights, of the project was crafting a logo that struck the right balance between seasonal charm and the power and dynamism of football and basketball.
We collaborated closely with the HBCU GO team across multiple rounds of exploration, working to land on a design that blended athletic boldness with celebratory flair, setting the tone for the show’s visual identity.
With the logo in hand, we turned our attention to building the visual world around it.
We expanded the concept into two fully realized environments: a snowy urban city that grounded the broadcast in real-world energy, and an open winter field that provided an ethereal, reflective counterpoint.
Together, they created a dynamic backdrop that could shift in tone depending on the moment in the show, from celebratory highlights to quiet reflections on the season.
Executive Creative Director Stephen Panicara
Creative Director Jonathan Larson
Executive Producer Jared Doud
Producer Jennifer Welch
Design Ted Gore, Brown Yoon, Jonathan Larson
3D Modeling Ted Gore, Miro Klasinc
2D Animation Ted Gore, Jonathan Larson
3D Animation Ted Gore
Compositing Ted Gore
Show open for CBS Sports' flagship NFL show.
Graphics package