Team Name Changes Without Relocating
Team Name Changes Without Relocating
Team owner Michael Jordan, who purchased a majority stake in 2010, announced in May 2013 that his franchise would re-brand from the Bobcats to the Hornets shortly after the New Orleans Hornets relinquished the nickname by becoming the "Pelicans" for the 2013-14 season. The Charlotte Bobcats officially adopted the "Hornets" moniker on Tuesday (May 20), launching a new website and social media accounts to reflect the name change. As part of the name change process, the Hornets will reclaim the history of the original Hornets: all original Hornets players will now be considered alumni of the current Hornets, opening up opportunities for the franchise to recognize and honor the earlier era of Charlotte basketball. Here are the other current franchises that have changed names without changing location.