In an interview with MTV, Jay-Z says the Nets new logos whose designs he "approved" are about his hometown: "classic and strong; a throwback to Brooklyn and what we're about."

The Nets' minority owner also spoke about the model for the logo and its simple font.

"It was really a take off the old subway signs, if you look at the old subway signs they were in black and white. It was that strong, beautiful, iconic black and white," Jay said. "I wanted to pick something that would stand the test of time and be here forever."

• Jay-Z Used Old Subway Signs For New Brooklyn Nets Logo (Video) - Rob Markman - MTV