The team now known as the Wizards began playing as the Chicago Packers in 1961, as the first modern expansion team in NBA history. Rookie Walt Bellamy was the team’s star, averaging 31.6 points per game, 19.0 rebounds per game, and leading the NBA in field goal percentage. During the All-Star game, Bellamy represented the team while scoring 23 points and grabbing 17 rebounds. Bellamy was named the league Rookie of the Year, but was the team finished with the NBA’s worst record at 18-62.

Established
1961

City
Chicago – Baltimore – Washington D.C.

League History
1961 – Present  National Basketball Association

Nickname
Packers – In the 60’s Chicago was known for their meat packing plants. So the original team was called the “Packers.”

Arena
2007 – Present  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