- 2002
- 2005
- 2010
- 2011
- 2013
-
Expansion in Charlotte
When the original Charlotte Hornets relocated to New Orleans in 2002, the NBA promised Charlotte leaders that the city would be granted an NBA expansion team for the 2004 – 2005 season. On December 18, 2002, a group led by Black Entertainment Television founder Robert L. Johnson was awarded the franchise, allowing him to become the first majority African American ... -
Time Warner Cable Arena
A new arena to host the Bobcats at uptown Charlotte began its construction in July 2003, and the team would play its home games at the Coliseum until the new building was ready. Despite failed attempts at the ballot box to fully fund the arena, city politicians decided to implement a hotel and leisure tax in Charlotte to help pay ... -
Michael Jordan’s Acquisition of the Franchise
In February 2010, it was reported that Jordan was seeking majority ownership of the Bobcats. As February wore on, it emerged that the leading contenders for the team were Jordan and former Houston Rockets president George Postolos. On February 27, the Bobcats announced that Johnson had reached an agreement with Jordan and his group, MJ Basketball Holdings, to buy the ... -
Worst Record in NBA History
In the lockout-shortened season, the Bobcats struggled and posted an NBA worst record of 7-59, losing their last 23 games of the season. In a nationally televised game against the New York Knicks, the Bobcats recorded yet another loss as their win percentage dropped to .106, setting a new record for the worst season by an NBA team in history. ... -
The Hornets Return
All of the Carolina was a buzz, as the Charlotte Hornets were back. A decade after the birth of the Charlotte Bobcats, and much negotiation, things were back to normal as the franchise reclaimed the Hornets’ history and colors from New Orleans who became the Pelicans. Coming off a playoff appearance, their second since 2004’s expansion team to the court ...
History of the Bobcats
The Charlotte Bobcats have a long and storied history in the NBA. From their inception in 2004 to their rebranding as the Hornets in 2014, they have been an integral part of basketball culture in North Carolina.
When Michael Jordan purchased majority ownership of the team from founder Robert L. Johnson, he brought with him a wealth of experience as both an owner and player – something that was invaluable to building up the franchise from scratch into one that could compete at its highest level. With his influence, Jordan quickly assembled a talented roster led by All-Star guard Gerald Wallace and center Emeka Okafor who helped lead them to two playoff appearances during their first four years under his direction (2007 & 2010).
Despite those successes on the court though, it wasn’t enough for fans or players alike who felt like they were lacking identity within such an established league; this eventually resulted in Charlotte being awarded another expansion franchise (the second time since 1988) which became known as The Hornets when it began to play again starting with 2014-15 season onward. Since then, Charlotte has seen great success off the court too - having won multiple awards for community outreach programs while also seeing attendance numbers rise significantly over the past few seasons thanks largely due to a new fan base created by the name change.
Overall, Charlotte Bobcats are now firmly entrenched amongst other teams across the country; not only do they boast rich history but also a bright future ahead filled with potential if the right steps are taken along the way. It's safe to say that whether you're a longtime supporter or just getting to know the team, there are plenty of reasons why should root for them!
Established
2004
City
Charlotte
League History
2004 - Present / National Basketball Association
Team History
2014 - Present / Charlotte Hornets
2004 - 2013 / Charlotte Bobcats
Nickname
Bobcats - The Charlotte Bobcats are one of the most iconic teams in the NBA, and their nickname is steeped in history. Fans chose the name during a contest held by then-owner Robert Johnson in 2004 when the team was first established.
When deciding on a new moniker for his team, Johnson wanted something representing North Carolina’s proud basketball heritage and vibrant culture. After much deliberation, he decided to go with “Bobcats” – an homage to the state's wild bobcat population thriving since colonial times.
But why did Johnson decide to use this particular animal as his mascot? He said it was because of its fierce spirit and tenacity on defense – two qualities he felt were essential for any successful basketball team! He also liked how it could be used as an acronym (Basketball Of Champions Always Triumphs), further cementing its place among other top sports nicknames like Lakers or Bulls.
In addition to representing North Carolina’s rich wildlife heritage and solid athletic tradition, using “Bobcats” also allowed them to stand out from other teams who had already taken up classic names such as Heat or Spurs - making Charlotte unique within professional sports circles! As time went on, more people began recognizing this fact, too, eventually leading many experts today referring them simply as "the Cats."
Championship
NBA Championships 0
Arena
2017 - Present / Spectrum Center
2008 - 2016 / Time Warner Cable Arena
2005 - 2008 / Charlotte Bobcats Arena
2004 - 2005 / Charlotte Coliseum
Owner
2010 - Present / Michael Jordan
2004 - 2010 / Robert L. Johnson
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.
Retired Number
13 / Bobby Phills
*Blue is this team’s history