How Did the Milwaukee Bucks Get Their Name? A Tale as Old as Time (or at Least 1968)
So, you're wondering how a basketball team ended up with a name that sounds like it belongs in a deer hunting lodge, huh? Well, grab a seat, buckle up, and let's dive into the fascinating world of naming sports teams.
How Did Milwaukee Bucks Get Their Name |
The Great Bucks Name Contest
Back in the groovy days of 1968, when bell-bottoms were in and disco was on the horizon, Milwaukee was getting ready to join the big leagues of professional basketball. But they had a problem: they needed a name. So, what did they do? They did what any self-respecting city would do: they held a contest!
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Over 40,000 people submitted their brilliant ideas. Some were terrible (we're looking at you, "Milwaukee Muskrat"), some were okay (the "Robins" got a lot of votes), but one name rose above the rest: the Bucks.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
Why Bucks? You Ask
Now, you might be thinking, "Bucks? Really? That's the best they could come up with?" Well, actually, it's pretty fitting. Wisconsin is known for its wildlife, and the white-tailed deer is the state's official animal. So, the name "Bucks" is a nod to the state's natural heritage. Plus, it's kind of tough and rugged, which is a good image for a basketball team.
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Almost the Milwaukee Robins?
It's true! The "Robins" were actually the most popular choice in the contest. Can you imagine a basketball team called the Robins? It sounds more like a children's story than a professional sports franchise. Luckily, the judges had better taste.
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The Bucks Legacy
Since their inception, the Bucks have become a staple of Milwaukee sports. They've had their ups and downs, but they've also produced some legendary players, like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Giannis Antetokounmpo. And let's not forget that epic 2021 championship run!
So, there you have it. The Milwaukee Bucks got their name from a fan contest, a nod to Wisconsin's wildlife, and a touch of good old-fashioned luck. And now you know.
How To... Bucks Trivia
- How to impress your friends with Bucks trivia: Mention that the Bucks were almost the Robins.
- How to become a Bucks superfan: Learn the lyrics to the "Go Bucks" cheer.
- How to appreciate Giannis Antetokounmpo: Watch his highlights on repeat.
- How to support the Bucks: Buy a jersey and attend a game.
- How to embrace the Bucks spirit: Cheer loudly, wear green, and believe in the team!