The Washington Wizards history spans decades of exciting changes and memorable moments in the NBA. Founded in 1961, the franchise has undergone name and roster transformations while staying competitive. Known for iconic players and strong fan support, the Washington Wizards basketball team has built a reputation for resilience, shaping its identity as a key Eastern Conference contender.
Established
1961
City
Chicago – Baltimore – Washington D.C.
League History
1961 – Present / National Basketball Association
Team History
1997 – Present / Washington Wizards
1974 – 1997 / Washington Bullets
1973 – 1974 / Capital Bullets
1963 – 1973 / Baltimore Bullets
1962 – 1963 / Chicago Zephyrs
1961 – 1962 / Chicago Packers
Nickname
Wizards – The Washington Wizards have been a staple of the NBA since their establishment in 1961. Throughout their time in the league, they’ve gone by various nicknames, including “Bullets” and “Wizards.” But what is the origin of these monikers? Let's look at how each nickname came to be associated with this storied franchise.
Washington Wizards Origin
The team was initially named The Chicago Packers when it first entered into existence as part of the National Basketball Association (NBA) expansion from 1959-1961. After relocating to Baltimore for two seasons, owner Abe Pollin wanted his team to represent his home city: Washington, D.C. In 1963 he changed its name from "Baltimore Bullets" to "Washington Bullets." This new moniker was meant as an homage to those who fought during World War II and represented strength, given DC's reputation as one of America's most potent cities then.
However, after 25 years under this title, Abe Pollin felt like it no longer fit with what he wanted his organization to stand for, and so on May 15th, 1997, he announced that they would change their name once again -this time becoming known simply as 'the Wizards.' While some fans were initially upset about losing such an iconic identity, Pollin explained that changing names again allowed them to start fresh while still paying tribute to past successes. He chose 'Wizards' due to its connection magic which made sense given how basketball can seem almost magical when played well enough!
The evolution of three distinct nicknames has helped shape the Washington Wizards history. From representing war heroes all way up through modern-day magicians –it is clear why this franchise holds a special place in many hearts!
Championship
NBA Championships 0
1978
Arena
2018 - Present / Capital One Arena
2007 – 2017 / Verizon Center
1997 – 2006 / MCI Center
1994 – 1997 / US Airways Arena
1973 – 1993 / Capital Centre
*Baltimore*
1963 – 1973 / Baltimore Civic Center
*Chicago*
1962 – 1963 / Chicago Coliseum
1961 – 1962 / International Amphitheatre
Owner
2010 – Present / Ted Leonsis
2009 – 2010 / Estate of Abe Pollin and Ted Leonsis
1999 – 2009 / Abe Pollin and Ted Leonsis
1964 – 1999 / Abe Pollin
1961 – 1964 / David Trager
- 1995
- 1997
- 2010
- 2010 - 2020
-
New Nickname: Wizards
In 1995, owner Abe Pollin announced he was changing the team’s name because Bullets had acquired violent overtones that had made him increasingly uncomfortable over the years, particularly given the high homicide and crime rate in the early 1990s in Washington, D.C. The final straw was the assassination of his longtime friend, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. A contest was ... -
Opening of Verizon Center
The Verizon Center, located in the Washington, D.C. neighborhood of Chinatown, originally opened on December 2, 1997, as the MCI Center, named after its sponsor, MCI Inc. Nearly a decade later, in January 2006, Verizon Communications purchased MCI Inc., and the arena’s name was changed accordingly. The following year, in 2007, the “first true indoor high-definition LED scoreboard” was installed ... -
Ted Leonsis Takes Over
Leonsis became the majority owner of the Washington Wizards in June 2010, inheriting a team that had 26 wins and 56 losses during the previous season. Leonsis has taken a fan-centric approach to run the franchise, by listening and responding to the concerns of Wizards supporters through his email and personal website. On May 10, 2011, the Wizards unveiled a ... -
John Wall era
On April 7, 2010, Wall announced that he would forgo his final three seasons of collegiate eligibility and enter the 2010 NBA draft, where he was expected to be the first overall selection for the Washington Wizards. On May 3, Wall signed with agent Dan Fegan. On June 23, 2010, Reebok revealed Wall as its latest signing, casting him as ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Washington Wizards History
The Washington Wizards history reflects decades of change, growth, and memorable moments in the NBA. Originally founded as the Chicago Packers in 1961, the franchise was one of two expansion teams added that year. They later moved to Baltimore, then became the Capital Bullets in 1973 before adopting the Washington Bullets name. In the 1997-1998 season, they finally became the Washington Wizards basketball team we know today.
Throughout Washington Wizards journey, the team has featured iconic players who left a lasting legacy. Hall of Famers like Wes Unseld and Elvin Hayes built a strong foundation in the early years. In later eras of Washington Wizards history, Gilbert Arenas and John Wall carried the team’s success forward. With each name change, the franchise built a fresh identity but maintained its competitive spirit in the Eastern Conference.
Although the franchise has not won an NBA championship under the Wizards name, it did secure a title in 1978 as the Washington Bullets. Between 1975 and 1979, the team made five consecutive conference finals appearances. As the Wizards, they reached the playoffs multiple times, including notable runs in 2005 and 2017. These moments highlight the team’s ability to stay relevant across decades of change.
In recent years, the Wizards have faced challenges, including injuries and roster transitions. Star guard Bradley Beal emerged as one of the NBA’s most prolific scorers, keeping the team competitive even during rebuilding phases. Under various coaches, including Scott Brooks, the franchise has shown glimpses of promise while developing younger talent for the future.
Washington Wizard Achievements
The Washington Wizards history includes significant achievements. The franchise boasts one NBA Championship (1978), four conference titles, and seven division titles. Several players, including Wes Unseld, Elvin Hayes, and Phil Chenier, have been honored in the team’s Ring of Fame. These accomplishments remain a source of pride for fans who have supported the team through every era.
Today, the Washington Wizards basketball team continues to build toward a new chapter under head coach Wes Unseld Jr. With a mix of emerging stars and experienced players, they aim to return to playoff contention and recapture the excitement of their past successes.
Sports Fan Products
From Bullets to Wizards: The Evolution of Washington’s NBA Team
Join us as we explore the fascinating journey of the Washington Wizards, from their early days as the Washington Bullets to their evolution into one of the most iconic teams in NBA history. This video celebrates the most significant rivalries, franchise history, and legendary Wizards Hall of Famers who have shaped the team's legacy. Highlighting key moments
Retired Number
10 / Earl “The Pearl” Monroe
11 / Elvin Hayes
25 / Gus Johnson
41 / Wes Unseld
45 / Phil Chenier
*Blue is this team’s history