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How well do YOU
know sports teams?
This
is
the
place
for
the
nicknames
and
origins
of
many
professional
sports
teams.
This
web
site
includes
the
professional
leagues
of
baseball,
football,
hockey,
basketball,
soccer,
and
more!
In
addition,
you'll
learn
a
little
bit
of
history
of
where
the
sports
teams
have
stopped and called home.
How
would two dynasty teams of different eras play against each other? Check
out What If Sports- Simulation Games for the results.
What team nickname
is
YOUR FAVORITE?...post
a comment, click here.
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All Starr Sports Zone Videos
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This is a Flickr badge showing public photos
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Kansas
City Sports Team Slideshow
|
The Sporting News- 2008 |
| 1. Boston |
| 2. Detroit + Ann Arbor |
| 3. Dallas-Ft. Worth |
| 4. New York |
| 5. Philadelphia |
| 6. Phoenix + Tempe |
| 7. Denver + Boulder |
| 8. Los Angeles |
| 9. Chicago + Evanston |
| 10. Washington |
| 11. Pittsburgh |
| 12. Houston |
| 13. Tampa- St. Petersburg |
| 14. Nashville |
| 15. Lawrence, KS |
| 16. Cleveland |
| 17. Anaheim |
| 18. Minneapolis- St. Paul |
| 19. Atlanta |
| 20. Salt Lake City + Provo |
| 55. Kansas City |
| Top Ten Most Winningest Sports Cities 2008 AskMen.com |
| 1. New York- 48
championship titles |
| 2. Boston- 31
championship titles |
| 3. Montreal- 26
championship titles |
| 4. Detroit- 17
championship titles |
| 5. Los Angeles- 16
championship titles |
| 6. Toronto- 15
championship titles |
| 7. Chicago- 15
championship titles |
| 8. Two Way Tie: St. Louis 12 championship titles San Francisco 12 championship titles |
| 9. Two Way Tie: Philadelphia -12 championship titles Pittsburgh- 12 championship titles |
| 10. Baltimore/Washington-
11 championship titles |
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Major League Baseball |
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Major League Baseball Hall of Fame World Series Tickets MLB Scoreboard & GameCast MLB Stadium GameTripping Ballpark Travel Guide |
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Since 1998, named from the diamondback rattlesnakes that are in the Arizona desert. Diamondback rattlers get their name from the pattern on their backs. And since baseball is played on a diamond, the name slithered in a reference to the game. The team is often called the "D-Backs" for short. Mascot: D.Baxter the Bobcat. |
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Named for James Gaffney, a Tammany Hall "Brave", who bought the team in 1911. The Braves name was chosen while they were in Boston (they started as the Boston Red Stockings), and were one of the original teams. The term Boston Braves doesn't refer to a Native American, but a white revolutionary activist who helped throw tea into the harbor during the Boston Tea Party. They were also called the Sons of Liberty. Samuel Adams was their "chief." The OLDEST continuously operating professional sports franchise in America, with the team's birth in 1871 as the Boston Red Stockings, and follows them to Milwaukee in 1953 and to Atlanta in 1966, playing under such a variety of names as Beaneaters and Doves through 1908, Rustlers, Braves, Bees (from 1936-1940), and back to the Braves. Mascot: Homer and Rally |
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Named for the State bird of Maryland, the Baltimore Oriole. Orioles was the nickname of a former minor league team. The franchise name is from Milwaukee as the Brewers in 1901 to St. Louis, in 1902-1953 as the Browns, then in 1954 to Baltimore to become the Orioles. Mascot: The Bird. The Orioles Bird is the #7 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Since 1901, named for the famous Red Stockings of the 1870's. Sox, incidentally, is an acceptable plural form of sock. One sock, two sox. Other nicknames: Beaneaters, Doves, Braves, Pilgrims, Puritans, Plymouth Rocks, and Somersets through 1906. Known as the Red Sox since 1907. The Washington Redskins NFL Football team began in 1932 as the Boston Braves. Mascot: Wally the Green Monster, Lefty and Righty. The #3 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. #2 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1901, originally the team was called the Invaders because they invaded Chicago before the opening of the 1900 season. The team adopted the Chicago White Stockings name used by the National League team in the late 1880s. Sportswriters shortened the name to White Sox when writing headlines. The club went through various names, including the Colts, in honor of their manager Cap Anson's appearance in the film The Runaway Colt. The name was officially changed in 1904 to the White Sox. Mascot: Southpaw |
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Since 1876. Originally called the White Stockings. The club went through various name changes. Named for the Chicago Orphans who promote their rebuilding with youth from 1898-1900. Also known as the White Stockings, Colts, Orphans, Spuds. Known as the Cubs since 1902. The Cubs were the last team to start playing home night games on Aug. 9, 1988. The #2 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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1st professional baseball club, formed 3/15/1869 as the Cincinnati Red Stockings. Named the Red Legs from 1944-1945, then Redlegs from 1954-1960, then the Red's since 1961. Called the Red Legs briefly in the 1940s during the time of the Communist scare. The team used the single "C" on its uniforms in 1905 and the word "Reds" inside the "C" starting in 1911. An NFL Football team that played briefly in the 1930's was called the Cincinnati Reds. Mascot: Gapper and Mr. Redlegs The #8 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Since 1901, they were named after Louis Frances Sockalexis, who is believed to be the first Native American major leaguer. Sockalexis was a Penobscot Indian (a tribe from Maine) who played for the Cleveland Spiders in the 1880s. Other sources believe the media and team chose "Indians" as a play on the name Boston Braves. Other nicknames: Broncos, Blues (uniform color too), Naps (in honor of team manager Nap LaJoie) and from 1912 to 1915 was called the Molly McGuires because of the large number of Irish players it had. Called the Indians since 1915. The Indians are also referred to as "The Tribe". Mascot: Slider. |
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Since 1993, named after the Rocky Mountains in the area. The franchise chose the same name that had been abandonded by a former NHL hockey team, the Colorado Rockies. Mascot: Dinger. |
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Since 1901, named after the yellow and black striped socks. The team was originally known as the Wolverines -- named after the former Detroit team in the old National League. Sportswriter Phil Reid of the Detroit Free Press thought that the team's black and yellow stripes looked like the uniforms looked like those of the Princeton Tigers and he started to call them the Tigers. The name stuck. The Detroit Lions NFL Football Team was named in reference to their then landlords, the Tigers. Mascot: Paws. #16 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index Paws is the #6 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Since 1993, named after the large fish, found off the coast and name of a minor league AAA team, the Miami Marlins. Mascot: Billy Marlin |
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Since 1962, originally named the Colt .45's, then renamed for the famous NASA Space Center in 1965. The team also used the nickname as part of its new home, the Astrodome, which opened in 1965. Mascot: Junction Jack. |
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Since 1969, named after the home of the "American Royal", one of the largest livestock and horse shows and parades in the USA, in a naming contest with 17,000 entries. The American Royal Livestock Show has been held in Kansas City since 1899. The team owners were looking for a team name fit for a king. The name also in honor of the kings of the Negro Leagues, the Kansas City the Monarchs. All Starr Sports Zone- Kansas City Royals Hall of Fame Page Kansas City Teams History Museum Kansas City teams by year with historical events Kansas City Royals Records Stadium: Kauffman Stadium: since 1973. Stadium was originally named Royals Stadium, but changed to Kauffman Stadium after original owner, Ewing Kauffman. Mascot: Sluggerrr (Lion) Buy KC Royals Tickets |
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Named after Los Angeles, the "City of Angels", where the team started. Changed from Los Angeles Angels (from 1961-1965) Named Angels because Los Angeles is Spanish for "The Angels". The Angels was the nickname of a former minor league team in Los Angles. Name changed from Los Angeles to California Angels 9/2/65, then to Anaheim Angels in 1997. Changed from Anaheim Angels to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in 2005. Mascot: Clutch and Scoop the Bears. Mascot: Rally Monkey The Rally Monkey is the #5 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Named "Trolley Dodgers" for the wild maze of trolley lines near the Brooklyn Bridge. The name came from a team originally located in Brooklyn, (from 1890 to 1957) as the Superbas through 1926, then Robins from 1927-1931, then for the Dodgers (from 1932-1957) which is short for Trolley-Dodgers, then moved to Los Angeles in 1958. Also known as the Brooklyn Bridegrooms (or just Grooms) in 1888 since six members of the team got married during the season and in the 1890's, the Brooklyn Superbas. Played as the Brooklyn Atlantics in the American Assocition of the 1880's. Around 1910, the team was briefly called the "Infants", from an owners speech about "Baseall is in its infancy". The famous Dodgers script appeared on the uniforms in 1938. The #15 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Named for the numerous Brewery's in the area, the "Beer Capital of the World", and to honor past Milwaukee teams who were also named the Brewers. Started in Seattle in 1969 as the Pilots, then moved to Milwaukee in 1970. Mascot: Bernie Brewer and Racing Sausages. The Racing Sausages gets an Honorable Mention as the Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Named for the "Twin Cities" where the team is located, Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN. The Kansas City Blues were used to form the Washington Senators in 1901 when the American League was formed. The franchise moved from Washington (DC) as the Senators (from 1901-1960), then to Bloomington, Minnesota as the Twins (1961-81) then to Minneapolis, MN in 1982. Mascot: T.C. Bear #24 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2007 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Started in Baltimore as the Orioles in 1901-02, moved to New York in 1903, as the Highlanders. Called the Highlanders, because the site is one of the highest spots in Manhattan, Later they were referred to as the Yankees, by a sportswriter, and officially changed in 1913. Called Highlanders both after a famous British Army regiment named Gordon's Highlanders, and because Hilltop Park was their home ballpark and was located on a hilltop overlooking Washington Heights. In 1912, pinstripes first appear on Highlanders' uniforms, creating a look that would become the most famous uniform design in sports. Called Yankees first by sportswriters Mark Roth of the New York Globe and Sam Crane of the New York Journal, the name appearing in print for the first time on June 21, 1904 in the Boston Herald. Officially renamed the Yankees in 1913 after moving to the Polo Grounds, home of the National Leagues New York Giants. In 1923, Yankee Stadium opened. Unofficial nicknames: Pinstripers and Bronx Bombers. The #1 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Since 1962, the name is short for Metropolitans, located in the New York Metropolitan area. They are named after an 1880's American Association team the New York Metropolitans. The team also selected its team colors of blue and orange as a tribute to the Giants and Dodgers, two teams that had left New York for the West Coast. Along with the Red's, the Met's have the distinction as having the shortest name in the big leagues, a sportswriters delight. The Mets nickname rhymed with the other sports teams in New York: Jets, Nets and Sets teams. Mascot: Mr. Met |
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Franchise moved from Philadelphia (from 1901-1954) to Kansas City as the Athletics (from 1955-1967), then to Oakland in 1968 as the A's, then changed to the Athletics in 1987. The nickname "Athletics" is the oldest in baseball dating back to the early 1860's. As early as 1866, their uniform featured the stylized letter "A". Mascot: Stomper the Elephant. The #20 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Since 1883, named for a "Philly, which is an inhabitant of the city. Also spelled Fillies in the early days. Owner Bob Carpenter held a contest in 1944 to change his team's name. From 5,064 entries, the Blue Jays was chosen, but didn't catch on and was later changed back to the Phillies. Called the Blue Jays from 1943-1944. Also known as the Quakers. Mascot: Phillie Phanatic Philly Phanatic is the #3 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Since 1887, named the Pittsburgh Innocents until 1891, where they lured second baseman Lou Bierbauerfrom the Philadelphia A's, lead to the name, Pirates. The Athletics were not happy with the way they lost Lou as he was "pirated" away from them. Also known as the Alleghenys. The Pittsburgh Steelers NFL Football team began as the Pittsburgh Pirates, in reference to the Pittsburgh "baseball" Pirates, their landlord. There was also a Pittsburgh Pirates NHL Hockey team from 1920-30's. Mascot: Captain Jolly Roger and Pirate Parrot #72 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2007 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1969, named for the Spanish word for priest, and was inspired by the padres of the Roman Catholic Mission San Diego de Alcala. Padres was the nickname of a former minor league team. Padre is the Spanish word for "father". Mascot: The San Diego Chicken and Swinging Friar The San Diego Chicken is the #1 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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In the 1880's the club was known as the New York Gotham's. The name was changed when manager Mutrie stood up in the dugout after an important victory in 1885 and stated that he was very proud of "My big fellows! My giants!" The franchise moved from New York (1883-1957) to San Francisco in 1958. The popularity of the New York Giants name inspired several Negro League baseball teams to adopt a similar variation of that name, i.e. Baltimore Elite Giants, Chicago American Giants. The New York "football" Giants of the NFL were named for the New York "baseball" Giants team which was once their landlord. Mascot: Lou Seal |
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Since 1977, named for the maritime industry and nautical history of area. Mascot: Mariner Moose. |
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Originally known as the St. Louis Brown Stockings in 1867. From 1882-1891 called the Browns, in the American Association, 1892-1898- Browns- National League , 1899- Perfectos- National League, 1900-current- Cardinals- National League. Named by new owners and their appropriately colored uniforms, of the Maroons, thus the name is used to refer to the color, not the bird. An NFL team was named the St. Louis Cardinals but was from Chicago and moved to St. Louis in 1960. Mascot: Fredbird The #5 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. #10 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1998, named after the devil rays and manta rays in the bay area. Changed name from Devil Rays to Rays in 2008. Mascot: Raymond. |
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Named after the famous Texas State Police. Moved from Washington DC as the Senators (from 1961-1971) to Arlington, TX in 1972. With the franchise change in cities it changed from lawmakers to law enforcers! Mascot: Rangers Captain (Palomino style horse) |
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Since 1977, named by former Ontario Premier John Robarts, a member of the teams board of directors, started talking about a morning routine: "I was shaving this morning and I saw a blue jay out my window". Blue color was chosen to match the "blue" theme of other Toronto teams the Maple Leafs hockey team and Argonauts Canadian Football Team. The team considered the nickname for the team as the Toronto Maple Leafs, since that was the name of the long standing minor league team in town from 1896 to 1967, but the NHL Hockey team took that name. Mascot: Ace and his female counterpart Diamond. (they are Blue Jays) |
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The Nationals were a Washington team long BEFORE the move to D.C. in 2005. In 1859, the Nationals and the Potomacs both played in the District. The team then stopped playing when the Civil War broke out. Later, the name surfaced again in the 1870's and 1880's. That team then joined the American League when it was formed in 1901 and changed it's name to the Senators. It then officially changed back to the Nationals in 1905. Although officially named the Nationals, the team also went by the name of Senators for more than fifty years! The Montreal Expos moved to Washington, D.C. in 2005. Other names considered with Nationals: Senators and Grays (Homestead Grays, a Negro League team who played games in Washington in the 1930-40's.) The Nationals was the official name of the longtime American League franchise more popularly known as the Senators. The team played in Washington during 1901-1960, with both names used for several decades. Officially changed to the Senators in 1957. That team later moved to Minnesota and became the Twins.The expansion Senators called Washington home from 1961-1971 beforemoving to Texas and becoming the Rangers. Prior Names: Washington Senators 1901-1971 Mascot: Screech |
| THE BIRTH OF BASEBALL NICKNAMES In 1882, Baseball's National League passed a rule to require specific COLORS for each team: Boston: Red; Buffalo: Gray; Chicago: White; Cleveland: Navy Blue; Detroit: Old Gold; Providence: Light Blue; Troy: Green; and Worcester: Brown. As you can see now, these chosen colors later influenced team nicknames such as the Boston Red Sox and Chicago White Sox. As writers became more inventive, they began to refer to teams by some characteristic that made the team or the city unique: Boston Beaneaters; Chicago Colts; New York Giants; Cleveland Spiders and Brooklyn Trolley Dodgers. Some teams have had TWO popular nicknames at the same time, for example: Brooklyn Dodgers/Robins and Washington Senators/Nationals. |
| SOX
STORY The Boston Red Sox team's nickname has been spelled with an "X" since 1907. You may wonder why aren't the Red Sox called the Red Socks? Why are the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox teams "sox" instead of "socks"? Many early baseball teams were named after their uniform colors. In the 19th century, there were clubs called the Red Stockings, Brown Stockings, and Blue Stockings. Newspapers like the Chicago Tribune often shortened these nicknames to "Sox." When Charlie Comiskey founded the American League's Chicago White Stockings in 1901, the Tribune wasted no time in dubbing them the White Sox. Boston's AL franchise seems not to have had an official name during its first few years. Reporters called them different names on different days, including the Americans (to distinguish them from Boston's National League team), the Bostons, the Plymouth Rocks, and the Beaneaters. In late 1907, the club's owner settled on Red Sox. |
| If
the league expands or a team moves....where is the BEST city for a new
MLB team?
Top 10 Largest Cities without a MLB Team (as of 2007 population):
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NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE    ........ top ESPN Bottomline |
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The NFL's oldest franchise and both team and nickname date back to Chicago in 1901. Originally located in Chicago, IL from 1920-1959, then moved to St. Louis from 1960-1987, then to Phoenix in 1988. Changed from Phoenix to Arizona Cardinals in 1994. The team was originally not named for the cardinal bird. The team name was from the maroon colored jerseys they bought from the University of Chicago. Due to a loss of players to World War II, the Chicago Cardinals and Pittsburgh also MERGED for one season and became Card-Pitt in 1944, with an 0-10 season. Mascot: Big Red |
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The name chosen from a contest. The falcon is proud and dignified, with great courage and fight. It never drops prey. It is deadly and has a great sporting tradition said the contest winner. Since 1966. Mascot: Freddie Falcon. |
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Home of the famous, Edgar Allan Poe, author of "The Raven". Ravens chosen in a contest. The franchise began in Cleveland as the Browns, moved to Baltimore, in 1996 and became the Ravens. Other nicknames: Colts 1950-19XX. Mascot: Edgar, Allan and Poe. |
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Since October 28, 1959. 1960-1972 in Buffalo, then to Orchard Park, NY in 1973, named for the famous American, Buffalo Bill Cody. Other nicknames: All-Americans 1921-1923, Bisons 1924-1925, Rangers 1926, Bisons 1927 & 1929. Mascot: Billy Buffalo |
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Since 1995. Team owner Jerry Richardson’s son Mark chose the name of Panthers as the team name. Mascot: Sir Purr. |
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Began in Decatur, IL in 1920 as the Decatur Staleys, named as the company football team of the A.E. Staley Corn Products Company. Then Chicago from 1921, the Staley's were renamed as the Bears in 1922. Owner-Manager, George Halas reasoned that because football players were generally bigger than baseball players, and the city’s baseball team was the Cubs, he felt it was only logical the football team be called the Bears. Other nicknames: Tigers in 1920, Hornets in 1949. The Cardinals and Tigers apparently were too close to each other for both to survive financially, so they decided to play a game for the 'rights' to Chicago; the loser would drop out of the league! The Cardinals went on to win 6-3, and the Tigers disbanded as agreed. Note: Chicago Cardinals and Pittsburgh also MERGE for one season and become Card-Pitt in 1944. |
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Since 1968. Paul Brown selected the name because there had once been a pro football team in Cincinnati named the Bengals. Other nicknames: Celts in 1921, Reds in 1933-1934. Mascot: Who Dey. |
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Since 1950, named from the teams first coach, the Legendary,... Paul Brown. The franchise moved to Baltimore as the Ravens, then started over as the Browns in 1999. The former St. Louis baseball team Browns name have no connection to the Cleveland Browns name. Other nicknames: Tigers in 1920, Indians in 1921, 1923 & 1931, Bulldogs in 1924-25 and 1927. |
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Since 1960. In the initial months following the its formation, the Dallas team was known as the “Steers.” After a few weeks, however, the name was changed to “Rangers.” At the same time, a baseball team operated in Dallas under that name, but was scheduled to fold before the 1960 football season. However, when the baseball team decided to play one more season, The two owners of the new NFL team, selected the name of Cowboys to avoid confusion. Other nicknames: Steers, Rangers, Texans in 1952. The Dallas Texans moved to Kansas City in 1963. Mascot: Crazy Ray and Rowdy The #13 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. #18 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1960, named from a fan contest and from Denver's 1921 Midwest Baseball Team. Original Uniform Colors: Seal brown and light gold. Denver has a sculpture of 7 horses, "The Broncos", that represent the symbolism of legendary Quarterback, number "seven", John Elway. They are displayed as driving forward toward Invesco Field at Mile High with victory awaiting inside the stadium, and the concepts of family and teamwork are depicted by the size and gender variations of the horses, from the leader to the mare and foal. The fountain surrounding the horses also represents the Rocky Mountain West, as they are displayed running through the water. Mascot: Miles |
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Began in Portsmouth, OH as the Spartans from 1930-1933, then to Detroit from 1934-1974, then to Pontiac, MI since 1975. The Lions name was chosen by George A. Richards, the Detroit radio executive who purchased the Portsmouth Spartans and moved the team to Detroit in 1934. The Lions name was chosen in reference to their then landlords, the Detroit Tigers baseball team. Other nicknames: Heralds 1920-1921, Panthers 1925-1926, Wolverines 1928. Mascot: Roary. |
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Team name came from the type of sponsors. The first owner orginally wanted to call them the "Indians" or "Indian Packers". America's first pro football dynasty was also the first franchise to utilize corporate sponsorship. In 1919, the Indian Packing Company gave the team $500 for uniforms and equipment. From then on they were called the Packers. The Indian Packing Company and later Acme Packing Company sponsored this team. Since 1921. At times, fans and sportwriters have called the team the Big Bay Blues, Blues or the Bays. A packer is someone who works in a packing house for packing livestock into meat products. "Green Bay Packers" is the longest standing team name in NFL history. #1 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 2002. Team colors are Battle red, Steel blue and Liberty white with a bulls head logo and a Texas lone star as an eye. Other names considered: Apollos, Stallions, Wildcatters, or Bobcats. Formerly Houston Oilers (1960-1998), but the franchise moved to Tennessee. Mascot: Toro |
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The name came from a team originally located in Baltimore, MD from 1946-1949, and again 1953-1983, then moved to Indianapolis in 1984. The Baltimore area is rich in history of horse racing and breeding. Mascot: Spike and Spirit. The #12 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. #5 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1995. The Jaguar is a rare, but powerful large cat in the U.S. The Jaguars name was selected through a fan contest. Other finalists for the name: Sharks, Stingrays and even Panthers. Mascot: Jaxson De Ville. #15 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Team owner, Lamar Hunt, after moving his Dallas Texans team to Kansas City originally wanted to name his team, the Kansas City Texans, but that was not chosen. The Chiefs name was chosen, partly to honor Native Americans who had lived in the area and partly to honor, H. Roe Bartle, Mayor of Kansas City at the time, Boy Scout Executive and founder of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say. The Dallas team was the first "Texans" team in the NFL, before the current Houston Texans. H. Roe Bartle's nickname was "Chief". The winner of the name the team contest was E.L. Diemier, came up with the name, as a warehouse manager, making out a bill of lading, came across the name "Chief Freight Lines". Another popular nickname in the name the team contest was the Kansas City Mules. Other names that were considered were the Royals, Stars and Steers. Started in Dallas as the Texan's from 1960-1962, moved to Kansas City in 1963. Other nicknames: Blues in 1924, Cowboys 1925-1926. Mascot: KC Wolf. All Starr Sports Zone- Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame Page Kansas City Teams History Museum Kansas City teams by year with historical events Kansas City Chiefs Records Arrowhead Stadium Webcam Get the hottest Chief Tickets from www.TicketsNow.com and cheer them on as they make a run for the Super Bowl. |
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Since 1966, named in a fan contest, for the popular mammal of the coastal area. Mascot: T. D. The #17 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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From 1961-1981 in Bloomington, MN to Minneapolis, MN in 1982. Vikings name was chosen because so many people in the surrounding area trace their heritage to Scandinavia. Mascot: Ragnar the Viking. |
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Named for the Patriots of the American Revolution, which is historic to the area. From 1960-1970 as the Boston Patriots, then to Foxboro, MA, as the New England Patriots in 1971. Mascot: Pat Patriot. #4 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1967, named for the famous song, "When the Saints Go Marching" The New Orleans NFL franchise was awarded on All Saints Day, Nov. 1, 1966. Mascot: Gumbo (Saint Bernard Dog) and Sir Saint #11 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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From 1960-1983 in New York, then moved to East Rutherford, NJ in 1984. In 1963 the team owner changed from New York Titans to the Jets to reflect a modern approach to the team. The Jets nickname rhymed with the other sports teams in New York: Mets, Nets and Sets teams. The #10 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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From 1925-1973 and 1975 in New York, then New Haven, CT 1973-74, and East Rutherford, NJ since 1976. Owner Tim Mara “borrowed” the Giants name from the city’s Major League Baseball team of the same New York Giants name, who was once their landlord. This was not unusual among early day pro football franchises. At one time or another there were NFL franchises named the New York Yankees, Brooklyn Dodgers, Cleveland Indians, Cincinnati Reds, and Detroit Tigers. The original Giants name was derived from the city's giant buildings. Other nicknames: Giants 1921, Yankees 1927-1928 and 1950-1951, Bulldogs in 1949. Newark NJ Tornadoes in 1930. |
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Started in Oakland in 1960-1981, moved to Los Angeles in 1982, then back to Oakland. For a brief period of time the team was known as the Senors, but before the 1960 season started, they were the Raiders. The #7 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Since 1933. When Bert Bell established his NFL franchise in Philadelphia in 1933, the country was struggling to recover from the Great Depression. New president Franklin D. Roosevelt had introduced his “New Deal” program through the National Recovery Administration, which had the Eagle as its symbol. Since Bell hoped his franchise also was headed for a new deal, he picked Eagles as the team name. The Eagles nickname and logo were based on the Blue Eagle symbol, an emblem created for business participating in President Franklin Roosevelt's new National Recovery Administration. Note: Philadelphia and Pittsburgh MERGED for one season and became Phil-Pitt or the "Steagles" in 1943. Mascot: Swoop. |
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Since 1933. The original 1933 team was named the Pittsburgh Pirates after the city’s major league baseball team, also their landlord. In 1940, Owner Art Rooney Sr. changed the team name to Steelers after the city’s steel industry. Began in Philadelphia as the Eagles, then in Pittsburgh as the Pirates, changed to the Steelers in 1941. Due to the loss of players to World War II, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh MERGE for one season and become Phil-Pitt or the "Steagles" in 1943. Chicago Cardinals and Pittsburgh also MERGE for one season and become Card-Pitt in 1944, with an 0-10 season. Mascot: The Terrible Fan. #3 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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From 1960 in Los Angeles, then to San Diego in 1961. The team general manager said about the name Chargers, “I liked it because they were yelling ‘charge’ and sounding the bugle at Dodgers Stadium and at USC games.” |
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Since 1950, named for the Gold Rush to California in 1849. Mascot: Sourdough Sam. |
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Since 1976, named in a fan contest, for the birds and totem poles native to the area. Mascot: Blitz. |
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The name came from a team originally located in Cleveland, OH from 1937-1945, then to Los Angeles 1946-1979, then to Anaheim in 1980-1995. The Rams (Cleveland) suspended operations for one year, in 1943 due to a loss of players to World War II. Moved to St. Louis in 1995. Principal owner Homer Marshman and his general manager, Damon “Buzz” Wetzel picked the Rams name because Wetzel had said his favorite football team had always been the Fordham Rams and Marshman liked the sound of the name. Other nicknames: All-Stars in 1923, Gunners in 1934. Mascot: Ramster. |
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Since 1976, named for the pirates and buccaneer history of the area. Other names considered: Buzzards and Sea Horses. Mascot: Skully. |
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The Titans name ties in with Nashville's designation as "the Athens of the South". A committee selected Titans citing the desire to have a nickname that reflected “strength, leadership and other heroic qualities.” The franchise moved from Houston as the Oilers (from 1959) to Memphis in 1997, then to Nashville in 1998. In Tennessee as the Oilers until changed to the Titans in 1999. Mascot: T-Rac (Racoon is the state animal of TN) |
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From 1932-1936 in Boston as the Braves, then moved to Washington, DC in 1937. George Preston Marshall acquired an NFL franchise in 1932 and named it the Boston Braves after the city’s Major League Baseball team. After poor finances and attendance in 1932, the name was changed to the Redskins. The Redskins name was retained when the team was moved to Washington in 1937. Other nicknames: Senators in 1921. Mascot: Chief Zee and the Hogettes |
 If the league expands or a team moves....where is the BEST city for a new NFL team? Top 10 Largest Cities without a NFL Team (as of 2007 population):
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NATIONAL BASKETBALL LEAGUE top 
Including the
former American
Basketball Association Teams |
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The franchise started as the Waterloo Hawks, then from 1946-1951 at Tri-Cities, as the Blackhawks who shared the home games between Moline, IL Rock Island, IL and Davenport, IA. To Milwaukee, from 1951-1955, as the Hawks, then moved to St. Louis, from 1955-1968, as the Hawks, then moved to Atlanta in 1968. Chief Black Hawks tribe had been located in Rock Island and a major part of the 1832 Black Hawk War took place in the area. Shortened to Hawks when the franchise moved to St. Louis in 1955-56. Mascot: Skyhawk |
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Since 1946, The City famous for its great Irish heritage, and the legendary original, Celtics, who played as a barnstorming team, and the ABL in the 1920-30's. Celtic means family of languages that include modern Welsh, Irish, and Scottish. The #4 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. #9 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Starting play in 2004-2005 season. Other nicknames considered: Dragons and Flight. Mascot: Rufus |
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Since 1966, originally named the Packers (now Washington Wizards), then renamed the Bulls, by the owner Dick Klein, in reference to the city's livestock industry. Other nicknames: Bullets 1961-1963, Packers 1961-1966. Other nicknames: Stags 1946-1950. Mascot: Benny the Bull and Lil' Benny. |
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Named by a contest. A Cavalier can refer to a gentleman with training in hosemanship and arms or to a knight. Other entries were Jays, Foresters, Towers, and Presidents. From 1970-1974 in Cleveland, OH, moved to Richfield, OH in 1974. Other nicknames: Rebels 1946-1947. Mascot: Whammer the Polar Bear. #19 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1980, named in a contest. An American pioneer Samuel A. Maverick, a Texan who neglected to brand his cattle. Other entries were Wranglers and Express. Other nicknames: Chaparrals 1967-1973, called Texas Chaparrals in 1970-71, moved to San Antonio. Mascot: Mavs Man. |
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Since 1967, formerly the (San Diego) Rockets, renamed Nuggets after 7 seasons, the name of the previous Denver AAU/NBL/NBA team, in the event of an ABA/NBA merger. Team officials chose the Nuggets because it paid tribute to the 19th century mining boom in Colorado when people rushed to the area, hoping to make their fortune in panning fo rgold and silver nuggets. The Nuggets nickname also draws a connection to the defunct Denver Nuggets that played one season (1949-50) in the NBA. Other Nicknames: Rockets 1967-1976. Mascot: Rocky the Cougar. Rocky is the #9 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Named Zollner Pistons due to Fred Zollner's ownership of a Zolner Machine Works, a piston plant. Renamed the Pistons upon entry to the NBA. Originally from Ft. Wayne from 1941-1957, moved to Detroit from 1957-1978, then to Pontiac, MI 1978-1988, then to Auburn Hills, MI in 1988. Other nicknames: Falcons 1946-1947. Mascot: Hooper #17 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Named after the Philadelphia Warriors, a former ABA team, 1946-1962, then moved to San Francisco from 1962-1971, moved to Oakland in 1971. Mascot: Thunder. |
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Originally, the San Diego Rockets (1967-1971) from a contest. Moved to Houston in 1971, for a city famous for the NASA Space program. The city theme is "A City in Motion", since it is the site for the manufacturing of Atlas Rockets. Other nicknames: Mavericks 1967-1969, moved to North Carolina. Mascot: Clutch. |
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Since 1967, named for the area's famous harness racing history, famous Indianapolis 500 Raceway, and to signify their intent of setting the pace in basketball. Other nicknames: Indianapolis Jets 1948-1949, Indianapolis Olympians 1949-1953. Mascot: Boomer and Bowser #119 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Renamed Minneapolis Lakers, after moving from Detroit (Gems) in reference to the large cargo carrying ships on the Great Lakes, and the Minnesota state motto "Land of 10,000 Lakes". From 1947-1960 in Minneapolis to Los Angeles in 1960-1967 then to Inglewood, CA in 1967. Other nicknames: Stars from 1968-1970, moved to Utah. |
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The franchise was originally the Buffalo Braves, from 1970-1978, then changed to the San Diego Clippers from 1978-1984 for the cities history as a harbor for clipper ships and the Star of India which was still harbored in San Diego. Moved to Los Angeles in 1984. |
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The franchise originally started as an expansion team in 1995, as the Vancouver Grizzlies. Moved to Memphis in 2001. Names of the former Memphis ABA teams: Pros, Tams, and Sounds. Home Arena: The Pyramid. |
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Miami Heat
Since 1988, named from a contest. Other entries were Flamingos and Waves. Other nicknames: Floridians 1968-1972, called simply Floridians from 1970-1972. Mascot: Burnie. |
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Since 1968, named from a contest. Other entries were Skunks, Beavers, Stags, Hornets, Stallions, Ponies, Badgers, Packers and Braves. Other nicknames: As the Tri-Cities Blackhawks, moved to Milwaukee as the Hawks in 1951. Milwaukee Hawks moved to St. Louis in 1955. Muskies 1967-1968, moved to Miami, and Pipers 1968-1969, moved back to Pittsburgh. Mascot: Bango. #94 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2007 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1989, named from a contest. The other finalist entry was Polars. Mascot: Crunch. |
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Originally the New Jersey Americans, renamed to the New York Nets, which rhymed with the other two city teams the Mets (baseball) and Jets (football). in Teaneck , JY 1967-68, Commack, NY 1968-69, W. Hempstead, NY 1969-71, Uniondale, NY 1971-77, Piscataway, NJ 1977-81, E. Rutherford, NJ 1981. The Nets nickname rhymed with the other sports teams in New York: Mets, Jets and Sets teams. Mascot: Sly the Fox. #120 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1988, originally located in Charlotte, where the team nickname got the meaning of it's name, which has been continued in New Orleans. During the Revolutionary War, General Cornwallis remarked about the resistance met in North Carolina, "Theres a rebel behind every bush, it's a veritable nest of Hornets!" Moved to New Orleans in 2002. #14 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1946, the name is short for the name Knickerbockers, for the decedents of the Dutch settlers of New York. (when New York was known as New Amsterdam) The term "Knickerbockers" traces its origin back to the Dutch settlers who came to the New World. It refers to the style of pants the settlers wore- pants that rolled up just below the knee, which became known as "Knickerbockers", or "knickers". The Knickerbocker name had its first use in the world of sports in 1845, the Alexander Cartwright's Manhattan-based baseball team (the first organized team in baseball history) was named the "New York Knickerbockers". It soon was shortened to Knicks. Mascot: Dancing Harry #121 (last place) Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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| Oklahoma
City
Thunder The Seattle SuperSonics team moved to Oklahoma City in 2008, and changed the team nickname to the Thunder. The Thunder nickname refers to the powerful storms in the area known as tornado alley. The 45th Infantry Division based in the city is called the Thunderbirds, a reference to the state's American Indian heritage. |
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Since 1989, named from a contest. The City is famous for Disney World and its"Magic" Kingdom. Other finalists were Juice, Heat and Tropics. Mascot: Stuff the Magic Dragon. |
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In 1963, renamed the 76'ers from a contest, after moving from Syracuse from 1949-1963 as the Nationals. Named for the cities famous Declaration of Independence Heritage of 1776. Mascot: Hip Hop. |
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Since 1968, named from a contest. Named for the hot Sun that shines on Phoenix. Other entries were Scorpions, Rattlers, Thunderbirds, Wranglers, Mavericks, Mustangs, Cougars. Mascot: Go-Rilla. Go-Rilla is the #4 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Since 1970, named from a contest, from all other entries, the name Chinooks was considered, but Trailblazers chosen in the end. |
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The franchise began as the Rochester Royals from 1945-1958, then moved to Cincinnati as the Royals in 1958-1972, then changed to the Kings ( to avoid confusion with the baseball team the KC Royals and minor league Omaha Royals), for a team dividing home games between Kansas City, MO and Omaha, NE from 1972-1975, then located only in Kansas City, MO from 1975-1985. Moved to Sacramento in 1985. Other Kansas City name entrie were Steers, River Kings, Tornadoes, Plainsmen, Barons, Regals, Scouts, Crowns and Stars. Mascot: Samson The Lion. See the Kansas City Teams History Museum See Kansas City teams by year with historical events |
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Renamed the Gunslingers after moving from Dallas as the Chaparrals from 1967-1973, and later renaming the San Antonio Spurs, 1973. Other entries were Stampede, Armadillos, Defenders, and Texans. #7 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Named from a contest. Other finalists were Beavers, Bobcats, Dragons, Grizzlies, Hogs, Scorpions, Tarantulas, Terriers, Towers, T-Rex. Other nicknames: Huskies 1946-1947. Mascot: The Raptor. |
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Named from a contest. The name came from a team originally located in New Orleans from 1974-1979, famous for Jazz Music. Moved to Salt Lake City in 1979. Other New Orleans entries were Dukes, Cajuns, Pilots, Crescents, Deltas, Knights. Other nicknames: Stars from 1970-1975. Mascot: Jazz Bear. |
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The franchise started in Chicago from 1961-1963, first as the Packers, then as the Zephyrs in 1962, then moved to Baltimore from 1963-1973, to become the Bullets, which was the name of the previous Baltimore NBA team (which played in an armory) , moved to Landover, MD in 1973 and changed to Capital Bullets, then in 1974 to the Washington Bullets before changing to the Wizards. Other Washington DC finalists to the Wizards were Dragon, Express, Seadogs and Stallions. Other nicknames: Capitols 1946-1951, Caps 1969-1970, moved to Virginia. Mascot: G.Wiz. |
|
| If
the league expands or a team moves....where is the BEST city for a new
NBA team?
Top 10 Largest Cities without a NBA Team (as of 2007 population):
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 NATIONAL HOCKEY LEAGUE top 
Including the
former World
Hockey Assn. Teams In
1967 the
NHL expanded
from six teams to 12! |
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Since 1993, named from the famous "Mighty Ducks" Disney Movie, owned by Disney, and Disney World located there. Changed name from "Mighty Ducks" to "Ducks" in 2006. Mascot: Wildwing. Wild Wing is the #8 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Since 1999, named after the state bird of Georgia, the Brown Thrasher. Mascot: Thrash. |
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Since 1924, named in a contest. The name Bruins was chosen in a contest, under the following guidelines: "The name chosen should preferably relate to an untamed animal whose name was synonymous with size, strength, agility, ferocity, and cunning; and in the color brown category." The owners wanted the new team to have brown and yellow team colors to match his stores as well as a name equated with strength and power. Mascot: Blades the Bruin The #14 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Since 1970, named in a contest, with the owners looking for a new name, other than a buffalo/bison variation. Mascot: Sabretooth the Tiger. #13 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Originally located in Atlanta from 1972-1980, also called "Hot Lanta" for the historic burning of Atlanta during the Civil War. Then, as the team moved to frozen lands of Calgary, Alberta, in 1980, the name took on a new meaning from the 1988 Calgary Olympics Flames. WHA team name: Cowboys 1975-1977. Mascot: Harvey the Hound. Harvey the Hound is the #2 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Named for the hurricanes that often hit the Carolinas. Started as the Hartford Whalers in the WHA in 1972, then NHL in 1979. Moved to North Carolina in 1997. Mascot: Stormy the Ice Hog. #20 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1926, named for the Army Regiment of the owner and the historical, Chief Black Hawk. In 1986 Black Hawks changed to Blackhawks. WHA team name: Cougars 1972-1975. Mascot: Tommyhawk The #11 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Named for the snow avalanches that come out of the Colorado Mountains. Started in 1972 as the Quebec Nordiques, moved to Colorado in 1995. Other nicknames: Rockies 1976-1982, Denver Spurs 1975-1976. Mascot: Howler the Abominable Snowman. |
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Since 2000, the name is based on Ohio's pride and patriotism during the Civil War as both the state of Ohio and the city of Columbus were significantly influential on the Union Army. Ohio contributed more of its population to the Union Army than any other state, while many of the uniforms worn by the Union soldiers were manufactured in Columbus. Mascot: Stinger |
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From 1967-1993 in Bloomington, MN as the Minnesota North Stars, moved to Dallas in 1993, as the Stars since they were in the "Lone Star" State. In 1978 the Cleveland Barons merge with the Minnesota North Stars and team remains in Minnesota. |
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Since 1926, originally the Cougars, (referring to their place of origin, the Victoria Cougars), changed to the Falcons in 1929, then changed to the Red Wings. Team Owner James Norris had once played for a team in Montreal known as the Winged Wheelers and based on that, decided to name his new team the Red Wings with a winged wheel as the logo. The logo is a natural fit for Detroit, also known as "The Motor City." Mascot: Al the Octopus The #6 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. #6 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1972, named for the once flourishing oil industry in Alberta, originally named the Alberta Oilers of the WHA. |
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Since 1993, named after the Florida Panthers in the State. Mascot: Stanley C. Panther. |
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Since 1967, named from a contest. WHA team name: Sharks 1972-1974. Mascot: Bailey (Lion) |
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The Wild since 2000. Other nicknames: North Stars 1967-1993, then moved to Dallas. Fighting Saints 1972-1976, New Fighting Saints 1976-1977. Mascot: Nordy |
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Since 1909, named for the team location in Canada, and Canadiens is french for Canadians. The team was born 8 years before the NHL began in 1917. The "C" and "H" in the logo represent the name "Club de Hockey Canadien." The club was originally known as Club Canadien. Originally the team only had French Canadian players. Other nicknames: Maroons in 1924-1938 and Wanderers 1917-1918. Mascot: Youppi The #9 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. #12 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index Youppi is the #10 Best Mascot per AskMen.com 2008 survey |
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Since 1999. Named by the fans for the fang and bones of a saber-toothed tiger found in a cave just below the new hockey arena. Mascot: Gnash. |
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As legend has it, the "Jersey Devil" is a half-man, half-beast who has roamed New Jersey's Pine Barrens for over 250 years. Started in Kansas City as the Scouts in 1974-1976. See the Kansas City Teams History Museum See Kansas City teams by year with historical events Moved to Denver in 1976-1982 as the Colorado Rockies, then to East Rutherford, NJ as the Devils in 1982. Other nicknames: Knights 1973-1974, Golden Blades 1973. Mascot: N. J. Devil |
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Since 1926. The team's first owner in 1926 was Madison Square Garden president G. L. "Tex" Rickard, and the team was knows as Tex Rickard's Rangers. Fans and sportswriters referred to the new squad as "Tex's Rangers," and the name eventually stuck. Other nicknames: Americans in 1925, renamed the Brooklyn Americans in 1941, and later fold in 1942. Raiders 1972-1973 but renamed the Golden Blades in 1973 moved to New Jersey. The #18 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Since 1972. The name came from a suggestion made by original co-owner Roy Boe's wife. Instead of naming the team the Long Islanders, she suggested calling the team the New York Islanders in an effort to win over some unhappy New York Ranger fans. Mascot: Sparky the Dragon #118 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Since 1992, named for the Capital City of Canada, and where the Senate is located. The Senators received their name from an earlier NHL team located in Ottawa, Canada's capital city and home to the Canadian senate, from 1917 to 1934. WHA team name: Senators 1917-1931 and 1932-1934, later St. Louis Eagles 1925-30, later Philadelphia Quakers for 1930-31. Nationals 1972-1973, Civics 1976. Mascot: Spartacat. |
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Since 1967, named from a contest, with the winning entry from a kid, spelling it, Fliers, but the committee chose Flyers, because it went phonetically with Philadelphia. WHA team name: Blazers 1972-1973 but moved to Vancouver. The #19 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Named the Coyotes (common to the area) in a name-the-team contest. Started in Winnipeg as the Jets in 1972, moved to Phoenix in 1996. WHA team name: Roadrunners 1974-1977. Mascot: Howler the Coyote |
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Since 1967, named in a contest, partly because the team is located in Northeastern PENsylvania. The Penguins name was also after their home arena, the Civic Arena, nicknamed "The Igloo" because of its igloo shape. Other nicknames: named the Pirates (after the same named Pirates baseball team and football teams in town in 1925, who move to Philadelphia in 1930 and become Quakers and fold in 1931. Mascot: Iceburgh. #8 Sports Brand of all Pro Teams-- 2008 Turnkey Team Brand Index |
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Named in a contest. Several shark research facilities are in the area, and part of the Bay Area is known as Red Triangle, due to its shark population. Started in San Francisco 1991-1993, then to San Jose in 1993. Mascot: S. J. Sharkie. |
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Since 1967, named from the owners inspiration from the famous song by W. C. Handy. City famous for its "Blues" music heritage Other nicknames: Eagles 1925-1930. Mascot: Louie |
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Since 1992, named for the frequent lightning storms in the area, From 1992-93 in Tampa, FL, moved to St. Petersburg, FL in 1993. Mascot: Thunderbug and Ladybug. |
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Since 1916, originally named the Arenas, renamed the St. Patricks in 1919 to draw the Irish fans. Then, in 1926, renamed by the owner Conn Smythe, from inspiration from an old Toronto team called the East Maple Leaves, and when Smythe bought the team, he changed it after the Maple Leaf Regiment of the First World War, and for the Maple Leaf on the Canadian Flag. The original minor league baseball team in Toronto was the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1896 to 1967. WHA team name: Toros 1973-1976, moved to Birmingham, AL. Mascot: Carlton the Polar Bear. The #16 Best North American Professional Sports Logo of the 20th Century per 2005 survey by Section 219/Classic Sports Logos. |
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Since 1970, named from a Canadian folk hero, Johnny Canuck, who was a great logger, was a skater and hockey player in his spare time. Canucks mean Canadian. WHA team name: Blazers 1973-1975, moved to Calgary. Mascot: Fin the Whale |
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Since 1974, named for The National "Capital" of the United States. Mascot: Slapshot the Eagle. |
| If
the league expands or a team moves....where is the BEST city for a new
NHL team?
Top 10 Largest Cities without a NHL Team (as of 2007 population):
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 top ESPN Bottomline |
 Major League Soccer US
National Soccer
Hall of Fame |
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Named for the famous "Chicago Fire". Mascot: Sparky. |
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Named for the many rapids flowing from the Colorado Mountains. Mascot: Rapid Man. |
Formerly the New York/New Jersey Metro Stars until 2006 when the team was bought by the drink "Red Bull". |
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Named for the numerous Construction (Crew) Companies. Mascot: Crew Cat. |
Name for the American Revolution in this area. Mascot: Slyde |
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Originally named the Burn. In preparing for their move to Frisco, they will change their nickname to FC Dallas for the 2005 Season. |
Original name for the Team in San Jose was the Clash, until 2000,changed to Earthquakes. When it was moved to Houston in 2006 the original name was to be the Houston 1836, then switched to Houston Dynamo. |
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(Washington DC) Mascot: Talon the Eagle. |
Originally named the Wiz (short for Wizards), for a medieval, Knights of the Round Table theme, chosen for its uniqueness. Renamed Wizards (the original contest winning entry by Sarah Starr). Other finalists were Outlaws, Express, Bandits. See the Kansas City Teams History Museum See Kansas City teams by year with historical events Mascot: Dynamo the Dragon. |
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Since 2005. Team name to be known as RSL as a second reference, pertaining to Real Madrid, a Spanish powerhouse team. |
Los Angeles team since 2005 This team is the sister team to Club Deportivo Guadalajara, popularly known as 'Chivas', Mexico's most beloved soccer club. |
| Toronto
FC
new team since May 2006 and first outside of the USA |
Seattle Sounders FC |
| San
Jose Earthquakes Named after the earthquakes in the area. Original name for the Team in San Jose was the Clash, until 2000,changed to Earthquakes. The team was moved to Houston in 2006 but returned to the league in 2008. |
Philadelphia Union starting in 2010 |
| Vancouver Whitecaps FC Whitecaps is reference to the city's oceanic location and was also the name of a North American Soccer League team the city had in the 1980's. new team to start in 2011 |
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| Portland, Ottawa and St. Louis are working
to get a new team,
the St.
Louis
Soccer
United.
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top |
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The name captures the spirit and imagination of Indiana basketball. Same colors as the Men's NBA team, the Indiana Pacers |
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The name came from the connection to the local weather, and because it conveys a strong attitude that this team will be a force to be reckoned with. |
Named for its relation to the NBA's Men's, Phoenix Suns |
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Named in its relation to the NBA's Men's, Washington Wizards |
Named for the famous Statue of Liberty located there. Mascot: Maddie the Dog. |
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Named in its relation to the NBA's Men's, Detroit Pistons. Mascot: Zap the Dingo. |
Named for its relation to the NBA's Men's, Houston Rockets. Mascot: Haley. |
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Named for its relation to the NBA's Men's, Minnesota Timberwolves. |
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Chicago Sky |
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In August, 2001, the National Professional Soccer League has disbanded and reorganized as the MajorIndoor Soccer League, which originally existed from 1978 to 1992. On 12/19/2001, the MISL merged with the World Indoor Soccer League to form a single entity for the 2002-3 season. |
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Stockton Cougars | Chicago Storm |
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Named after the annual Calgary Stampede. |
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Named after the two teams that merged, the Tigers and Wildcats. Mascot: T. C. |
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Quad City Flames |
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Since 2006, team name chosen from a contest. Formerly the New Orleans VooDoo but after the 2005 hurricanes, the team was moved to KC. See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
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Cleveland Gladiators |
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Pioneers |
Tri-Cities Fever |
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Dorados |
Central Valley Coyotes |
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| Jersey
Express |
New
York
City
Thunder |
New
York
Red
Raiders |
Youngstown
Swish |
Maryland
Marvels |
Cleveland
Rockers |
Kansas
City
Stars |
| Tri
City
Suns |
Chicago
Steam |
Grand
Rapids
Flight |
Akron
Rise |
Lake
Michigan
Admirals |
Colubus
Crush |
Detroit
Hoops |
| Pittsburgh
Phantoms |
Kentucky
Bisons |
Bluegrass
Stallions |
East
Kentucky
Miners |
Smoky
Mountain
Jam |
St.
Louis
Stunners |
West
Virginia
Blazers |
| Atlanta
Vision |
Bahama
All
Pro
Show |
Music
City
Stars |
Georgia
Prowl |
Charlotte
Crossover |
Carolina
Kings |
SETX
Mavericks |
| Houston
Takers |
West
Texas
Whirlwinds |
North
Texas
Fresh |
Dallas
Generals |
Texas
Fuel |
San
Francisco
Rumble |
Seaside
Seakings |
| Sacramento
Heatwave |
Salt
Lake
City
Saints |
Chico
Rage |
Clayton
Showtime |
Mississippi
Blues |
Columbus
Life |
Florida
Thundercats |
| Washington
Raptors |
Seattle
Zhen |
Seattle
Mountaineers |
San
Diego
Surf |
Riverside
Rainmakers |
Las
Vegas
Aces |
Los
Angeles
Slam |
| Honolulu
Pegasus |
Central
Valley
Dawgs |
Compton
Cobras |
California
Beach
Ballers |
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Baltimore Bay Atlantic Sharks |
Virginia Kings |
Maryland Marauders |
| London Silverbacks |
Lapeer County Lions |
Tri-City Thunder |
Genessee County Patriots |
| Kane County Eagles |
Wisconsin Wolfpack |
Racine Raiders |
Milwaukee Marauders |
| Glens Falls Greenjackets |
Western Mass Blitzin Bears |
Hudson Valley Highlanders |
Western New York Cougars |
| Finger Lakes Dragons |
Iowa Lightning |
LaCrosse Rough Riders |
Manson Ealges |
| Kansas Kaos |
Cass County Renegades |
Junction City Spartans |
See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
| Port City Monarchs |
Pensacola Lightning |
Louisiana Storm |
Crestview Heat |
| Midwest Titans |
St. Louis Bulldogs |
Missouri Wildcats |
See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
| Foothill Firehawks |
Southern California Steelers |
California Raiders |
Las Vegas Kings |
| California Longhorns |
SoCal Eagles |
Barstow Riffians |
West Coast Sharks |
| Valley Trojans |
San Luis Obispo Panthers |
Bakersfield Panthers |
Santa Clara Mad Dogs |
| Central Coast Grizzlies |
California Dolphins |
North County Cobras |
San Diego Thunder |
| San Diego Stallions |
Desert Valley Spartans |
Moreno Valley Mercury |
Soboba Warriors |
| Orange County Jaguars |
Inglewood Blackhawks |
Long Beach Lions |
Tri-County Titans |
| South Bay Skulls |
Los Angeles Generals |
Los Angeles Scorpions |
Bay Area Pearland Gamblers |
| San Antonio Wolves |
Texas Yellow Jackets |
Baton Rouge Pride |
Louisiana Soldiers |
| Philadelphia Panthers |
South Jersey Lynx |
New Jersey Terminators |
New York Panthers |
| Indianapolis Tornados |
Indiana Warriors |
Chicago Wolverines |
Ocean State Vipers |
| Conneticut Giants |
Boston Panthers |
Pittsfield Aces |
Dakota Lawdawgs |
|
See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
NE Neb Lightning |
St. Paul Pioneers |
Twin Cities Lumberjacks |
| Minnesota Maulers |
British Columbia Spartans |
Kitsap County Bears |
West Sound Saints |
| North King County Wildcats |
Central Penn Piranha |
York Razorbacks |
Chambersburg Cardinals |
| South Central Yarddawgs |
Keystone Gladiators |
Lancaster Lightning |
Georgia Ragin Bulls |
| WG |
MT |
Georgia Mustangs |
Georgia Generals |
| Asheville Grizzlies
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Beaver County Warriors |
| North Coast Vikings |
Ohio Invaders |
Nashville Storm |
Arkansas Rhinos |
| Central Virginia Vipers |
Hampton Roads Hurricanes |
Virginia Crimson Cardinals |
Virginia Raptors |
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World Team Tennis | top |
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Home Court: Plaza Tennis Center |
Sacramento Capitals |
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Washington
Kastles |
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| Mississippi
River Kings |
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Arizona Sun Dogs | Odessa Jackalopes |
| Rocky Mountain Rage |
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Rapid City Rush | New Mexico Scorpions |
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| Austin Ice Bats |
Missouri
Mavericks |
Texas Brahamas |
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Women's Professional Football League |
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| Las Vegas Showgirls |
Wisconsin Wolves |
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Carolina Queens |
| New Mexico Burn | Empire State Roar |
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| SoCal Scorpions |
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| Conneticut Cyclones |
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New Jersey Titans |
| WFA | Womens Football Alliance |
||||
| New
England Nightmare |
Keystone
Assault |
New
Jersey Titans |
Baltimore
Burn |
West
Michigan Mayhem |
Cleveland
Fushion |
| Philadelphia
Libety
Belles |
West
Virginia Bruisers |
Dayton
Diamonds |
Fort
Wayne Flash |
Columbus
Comets |
Pittsburgh
Force |
| Indiana
Speed |
Toledo
Reign |
Cincinnati
Sizzle |
Kentucky
Karma |
Empire
State
Roar |
Monterrey
Mexico
Aguilas
Regias |
| Gulf
Coast Riptide |
Jacksonville
Dixie
Blues |
Mid
Stout Sol |
New
Orleans Blaze |
Iowa
Thunder |
Panama
City
Jaguars
(coming
in
2010) |
| Minnesota
Machine |
Arizona
Assassins |
St.
Louis Slam |
Austin
Outlaws |
Houston
Power |
Lone
Star Mustangs |
| Oklahoma
Lightning
(coming
in
2010) |
Nebraska
Stampede |
Las
Vegas Showgirlz |
Carolina
Raging
Wolves |
Tampa
Bay Admirals |
Pacific
Warriors |
| Central
Florida
Anarchy |
Kansas
City
Spartans
(coming
in
2010) |
Central
Cal
War
Angels |
Utah
Blitz |
Sacremento
Rush |
Portland
Fighting
Fillies |
| NWFL |
|
|
top |
| Austin Outlaws | Columbus Comets |
See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
|
| West Virginia Bruisers |
|
Cincinnati Sizzle | Pittsburgh Force |
| East Texas Saberkats |
Ft Wayne Flash |
Houston Cyclones |
Iowa Thunder |
| Jersey Justice |
Lone Star Mustangs |
Memphis Belles |
Minnesota Vixen |
| Missouri Phoenix |
St. Louis Slam |
Treetown Spitfire |
West Michigan Mayhem |
| Dayton Diamonds |
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top |
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top |
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TOP | |
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|
| UHL | United Hockey League | UHL since 1990
(the UHL was known as the Colonial Hockey League until 1997-98) |
|
| Adirondack Frostbite | Elmira Jackals | Flint Generals | Fort Wayne Komets |
| Kalamazoo Wings | Missouri River Otters | Muskegon Fury | Port Huron Beacons |
| Quad City Mallards | Richmond RiverDogs | Rockford IceHogs | Danbury Thrashers |
| Motor City Mechanics | TOP | ||
| NorthL |
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| Fargo-Moorhead Redhawks | Sioux Falls Canaries | Sioux City Explorers | Lincoln Saltdogs |
| Kansas
City T-Bones started in 2003. Name chosen in a contest for fans. See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
Joliet Jackhammers | St. Paul Saints | Gary Southshore Railcats |
| Schaumburg Flyers | Winnipeg Goldeneyes | ||
| MLL | Top | ||
| San Francisco Dragons | Boston Cannons | Philadelphia Barrage | Washington Bayhawks |
| Long Island Lizards | New Jersey Pride | Rochester Rattlers | |
| Chicago Machine | Denver Outlaws | L.A. Riptide | |
| NLL | National Lacross League | TOP | |
| Buffalo Bandits | Calgary Roughnecks | Chicago Shamrox | Colorado Mammoth |
| Edmonton Rush | Minnesota Swarm | New York Titans | Philadelphia Wings |
| Portland LumberJax | Rochester Knighthawks | San Jose Stealth | Toronto Rock |
| NABL | National Alliance of Basketball Leagues |
|
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See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
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Select Stars |
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| WPS |
starting April
2009
(the league logo is modeled after Mia Hamm, perhaps women's most popular player ever.) |
TOP | |
| Saint
Louis Athletica |
Boston Breakers | Chicago Red Stars |
Sky Blue FC (NY/NJ Area) |
| Los
Angeles Sol |
FC Gold Pride (SF Bay Area) | Washington (DC) Freedom | |
| Atlanta
starting
in
2010 |
Dallas
starting
in
2010 |
Philadelphia
starting
in
2010 |
|
| AISL | American
Indoor
Soccer
League |
|
| Cincinnati
Excite |
Massachusetts
Twisters |
Rockford
Rampage |
| Tulsa
Revolution |
Northern
Illinois
Rebels |
| PDL |
Premier
Development League Soccer |
||
| Abbotsford
Mariners |
Atlanta
Silverbacks
U23's |
Austin
Aztex
U23's |
BYU
Cougars |
| Bakersfield
Brigade |
Baton
Rouge Capitals |
Bradenton
Academics |
Brooklyn
Knights |
| Cape
Cod Crusaders |
Carolna
Dynamo |
Cary
RailHawks U23's |
Cascade
Surge |
| Central
Florida
Kraze |
Chicago
Fire |
Cincinnati
Kings |
Cleveland
Internationals |
| Colorado
Rapids
U23's |
DFW
Tornados |
Des
Moines Menace |
El
Paso Patriots |
| Fort
Wayne Fever |
Fredericksburg
Gunners |
Fresno
Fuego |
Hampton
roads
Piranhas |
| Houston
Leones |
Indiana
Invaders |
Kalamazoo
Outrage |
Kansas City Brass See the K.C. Teams History Museum |
| Lancaster
Rattlers |
Larado
Heat |
Long
Island Rough Riders |
Los
Angeles Legends |
| Michigan
Bucks |
Mississippi
Brilla |
Nashville
Metros |
New
Hampshire Phantoms |
| New
Jersey Rangers |
New
Orleans Shell Shockers |
Newark
Ironbound
Express |
Northern
Virginia
Royals |
| Ocean
City Barons |
Ogden
Outlaws |
Orange
County
Blue
Star |
Ottawa
Fury |
| Palm
Beach Pumas |
Panama
City
Pirates |
Reading
Rage |
Rhode
Island Stingrays |
| Richmond
Kickers
Future |
San
Fernando Valley Quakes |
San
Francisco Seals |
San
Jose Frogs |
| Southern
California
Seahorses |
Spokane
Spiders |
Springfield
Demize |
St.
Louis Lions |
| Tacoma
Tide |
Thunder
Bay
Chill |
Toronto
Lynx |
Vancouver
Whitecaps
Residency |
| Ventura
County
Fusion |
Vermont
Voltage |
Virginia
Legacy |
West
Michigan Edge |
| West
Virginia Chaos |
Westchester
Flames |
Yakima
Reds |
|
| APFL |
American
Professional
Football
Leauge An indoor arena football team league since 2003 |
||
| Beaumont
Drillers |
Conroe
Storm |
Florida
Knights |
Iowa
Blackhawks |
| Kansas
Koyotes |
Missouri
Minutemen |
Nebraska
Extreme |
Springfield
(IL)
Shield |
| Springfield
(MO)
Wolfpack |
Texas
Regulators |
Wichita
Falls
Diablos |
|
| UFL |
United
Football
League since 2009 |
||
| Hartford |
Las
Vegas |
Los
Angeles |
Orlando |
| New
York |
San
Francisco |
Sacramento |
|
| Fictional Sports
Teams More fictional teams |
|||
| Gothan
Knights-
Batman
Comic
Books |
Las
Venturas Bandits- Grand Theft Auto Series |
California
Pioneers-
1994
Hardball
TV
Series |
Los
Angles Mastadons- The Seventh Game by Roger Kahn |
| Springfield
Isotopes-
The
Simpsons
TV
Show |
Boston
Black
Beans-
Spitballs
&
Holywater
by
James
Donohue |
London
Kings-
Star
Trek-
Deep
Space
Nine |
Metropolis
Monarchs-
Superman
Comic
Books |
| Charlotte
Banshees-
womens
team
in
Juwanna
Man |
Kansas
City
Ramblers-
Kansas
City
Bomber
Movie
with
Raquel
Welch |
Los
Angeles Diablos- Bedazzled 2000 film |
Flint
Tropics- Semi-Pro Movie |
| Charlestown
Chiefs-
Slap
Shot
Movie |
Los
Angeles Outlaws- Against All Odds Movie |
Mean
Machine- The Longest Yard Movie |
Miami
Bucks- Semi-Tough Movie |
| North
Dallas Bulls- North Dallas Forty Movie |
Texas
State Armadillos- Necessary Roughness Movie |
Washington
Sentinels-
The
Replacements
Movie |
California
Crusaders,
Colorado
Blizzard,
Dallas
Knights,
Kansas
Twisters,
Chicago
Rhinos,
Miami
Sharks,
Los
Angeles
Breakers, New York Emperors- Any
Given Sunday Movie |
| Minnesota
State
Screaming
Eagles,
Orlando
Breakers-
Coach
TV
series |
California
Bulls,
Chicago
Huskies,
Houston
Stallions,
Phoenix
Warriors-
1st
&
Ten
TV
Series |
Cleveland
Cats,
Los
Angeles
Stallions-
The
Last
Boy
Scout
Movie |
Louisville
Mystics,
South
Central
Louisiana
State
University
Mud
Dogs,
University
of
Louisiana
Cougars,
Clemson
Stars- The Waterboy Movie |
| Sunnydale
Razorbacks-
Buffy
the
Vampire
Slayers
TV
series |
New
York Knights, Hebrew Oilers- The Natural Movie |
Kansas
City
Knights-
Sugar
a
HBO
Movie
series.
|
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|
|
| Atlanta Steam | Chicago Bliss |
| Miami Caliente | NE Euphoria |
| Tampa Breeze | Dallas Desire |
| Los Angeles Temptation | Phoenix Scorch |
| San Diego Seduction | Seattle Mist |
2008 Turnkey
Sports Team Brand Index. A consumer study of the brand strength of all
122 team brands in the NBA, NFL, NHL and MLB; as measured in each
team’s
home market.
Logos shown on this web site are for
historical and educational purposes.
If
any questions, corrections or additional information, send
me an E-Mail:
| Blog |
Calendar |
Cartoons |
Chat
Room |
E-cards |
Facebook Kansas City Sports Teams Fans |
FanIQ | Guestbook |
LinkedIn |
Links |
Message
Board |
Photo
Gallery |
Site
Search |
Vote |
Web
Ring |
(c) Copyright,
Matthew
W. Starr 1997-2010. All Rights Reserved. These webpages, in
whole or
in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized, or other
retrieval system or
transmitted in any form, by any means whatsoever without the written
permission of Matthew W. Starr.
Last Updated: February 8,
2010
