How NBA Teams Got Their Names
Historical events have also influenced NBA team names. The Hawks, for example, were initially called the Tri-Cities Blackhawks. Similarly, the Indiana Pacers' name reflects Indiana's history with harness racing pacers and the pace car used during the Indianapolis 500.
Each NBA team's name carries a unique story, often reflecting the city's historical past or the place where the team first originated. This blog post delves into the intriguing tales behind some of these names.
The Birth of New Teams
The youngest franchise in the NBA, the New Orleans Pelicans, joined the league in 2002. The team moved from Charlotte to New Orleans that year, technically making the then-New Orleans Hornets an expansion franchise.
The Power of Fan Votes
Many NBA teams owe their names to fan votes. For instance, the Cleveland Cavaliers got their name through a poll run by the Cleveland Plain Dealer in 1970. Jerry Tomko, who suggested the name, described Cavaliers as "daring, fearless men who never surrender, no matter the odds."
The Influence of Geography
Geographical factors have also played a significant role in naming NBA teams. The team name "Grizzlies" predates the team's move to Memphis. Originally, the team was the Vancouver Grizzlies, which seemed more fitting given Vancouver's wilderness. Despite relocating to Memphis, the team retained its original name.
The Impact of Historical Events
Historical events have also influenced NBA team names. The Hawks, for example, were initially called the Tri-Cities Blackhawks. Similarly, the Indiana Pacers' name reflects Indiana's history with harness racing pacers and the pace car used during the Indianapolis 500.
The Role of Contests
Contests have been instrumental in deciding many NBA team names. When Portland was granted an expansion franchise in 1970, a name-the-team contest was announced. The name Trail Blazers was chosen, reflecting the pioneering spirit of the region.
The Significance of Local Culture
Local culture and traditions have also shaped NBA team names. The Sacramento Kings, originally the NBL's Rochester Royals, had to change their name when they moved to Kansas City and Omaha in 1972 due to the existence of a baseball team called the Royals. They kept the royalty theme going, and when the team relocated to Sacramento in 1985, the name remained.
The Persistence of Original Names
Some teams have retained their original names despite relocation. The Los Angeles Lakers, for instance, were initially based in Minneapolis, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” hence the nickname Lakers. Despite the move to Los Angeles in 1960, the team decided to keep the name due to its strong tradition.