What is the name of Las Vegas's new team? American media lists 11 potential team names: Can it break free from the gambling image?

On March 26 Beijing time, CBS reporter Wembish discussed the naming topic for Las Vegas's expansion team. The specific content is as follows:

We already know that Seattle's new team will be named the "SuperSonics." When the team moved to Oklahoma City in 2008, a key agreement was reached: If an NBA team returns to this Emerald City, Seattle will retain the naming rights, brand identity, and all related historical records of the SuperSonics. If the new team does not use the SuperSonics name, Seattle residents are likely to protest.

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson recently even passed a resolution explicitly supporting the return of the SuperSonics, stating: "Seattle is ready to welcome the SuperSonics home." Once the team name is confirmed and the historical ties with Oklahoma City are clarified, all legendary players who ever played for the SuperSonics will once again receive due tribute.

The naming of Las Vegas's new team, however, is full of creativity and possibilities. Although the team is located in the world's gambling capital, the league may not want to convey a specific negative image. Let's first look at some potential team names.

11. Las Vegas Gamblers

The NBA probably won't approve this name, right? Given recent frequent sports gambling scandals, the chances are minimal... However, I think it should closely reflect Las Vegas's city characteristics, though the name "Gamblers" could perhaps be optimized further.

10. Las Vegas Jackpot

This name cleverly incorporates gambling elements while avoiding some negative associations. Although the name is somewhat plain, creative logos could be designed, such as a pile of slot machine coins or a fierce anthropomorphized poker chip.

9. Las Vegas Jokers

The reason is simple: The WNBA's Las Vegas Aces already use "Aces," and the Sacramento Kings use "Kings," so "Jokers" might be a secondary choice. I personally don't really like this name, and the Joker logo isn't appealing, but this is indeed a type of name the team might choose.

8. Las Vegas Buffet

Listen to my reasoning first. The team logo could be designed as a plate piled with abundant food, somewhat whimsical in style. Since gambling elements aren't emphasized, why not combine another major feature of Las Vegas—the buffet. A Las Vegas minor league baseball team has already adopted this idea, using "The Belt Buster" as a secondary logo, directly depicting a plate with lobster tail, eggs, pie, etc. This name has been used before, so it ranks lower, but it's only a secondary logo; if the NBA uses it as a full-time team name, I would strongly support it. Imagine the partnership opportunities this name could bring.

7. Las Vegas Mirages

Las Vegas has a hotel called "The Mirage," which closed in 2024, but this team name actually originates from an optical phenomenon—objects appearing distorted due to extreme heat, or seeming to exist but not actually there. Like seeing a mirage of an oasis in the desert that is actually empty. Las Vegas summers are extremely hot, and this name could create a unique team identity.

6. Las Vegas High Rollers

This name is moderately packaged and suitable as an official team name, or could more generally be called "Vegas High Rollers"—honestly, I'm starting to dislike this name a bit now. But it likely will make the final candidate list.

5. Las Vegas Outlaws

Looking back to the cowboy era, incorporating a cowboy theme. This name was used for an XFL team in the early 2000s and gained popularity due to running back Rod-"I hate them"-Smart. With its historical background, this name might initially generate buzz. But perhaps finding a more original name is better than reusing an old one.

4. Las Vegas Villains

Imagine players, coaches, and fans deeply embracing this nickname. There have been similar cases before, but this team would truly adopt the identity of "Villains." I can already envision the scene: Dillon Brooks, nicknamed "Villain," wearing black and purple jerseys with "Villains" printed on the front, shouting "Villains Nation" to home fans, igniting the arena's passion. Actually, I fully support this idea now.

3. Las Vegas Sharks

On the surface, this name seems somewhat ordinary. But considering "Loan Sharks" cannot be used, this is a pun that those in the know understand. Meanwhile, "Sharks" can also refer to skilled poker players, a double meaning. The logo could be designed as a shark biting a stack of cash, poker chips, or other money-related elements. Obviously, a coastal city's team called "Sharks" makes more sense, but I like names that create confusion.

2. Las Vegas Dust Devils

Why not combine another natural phenomenon for the name? If you're from Las Vegas, Phoenix, or surrounding areas, you might be familiar with this. Dust Devils (also called dirt devils) are similar to tornadoes but smaller and more peculiar in form. They also have rotating air currents but are essentially whirlwinds formed by dust. This name is quirky, unique, and mostly harmless. A mascot shaped like a Dust Devil dunking a basketball could sell countless hats; I would definitely buy one.

1. Sin City Strivers

This is my top choice. I think professional sports teams should use nicknames more, like the Golden State Warriors. The Las Vegas expansion team is a perfect opportunity. Of course, it could simply be named "Las Vegas," but the nickname "Sin City" is cooler and carries a mysterious aura. Paired with "Strivers," it cleverly blends Las Vegas's cultural traits without being overly vulgar. Remember, never overindulge.

What do you think the new Las Vegas team should be named? Feel free to leave your comments.