Photo credit: Michelle Bartsch

Vipers – Photo credit: Kevin Milazzo

Let’s face it, The Jazz would be an ideal name for New Orleans. Unfortunately, Utah has a hold on that one. But New Orleans is known worldwide for its live music. The New Orleans Jazz Vipers is a renowned swing band that embodies traditional Jazz. Why not be the New Orleans Vipers? The name has a strong connection to Jazz music, Louisiana is no stranger to a wide variety of snakes, and it’s more intimidating than a bucket-mouthed seabird.

Soul – Photo credit: D.B. Gaston

Jazz aside, a large facet of the musical melting pot of New Orleans is Soul music. Everyone wants their team to have soul. It’s synonymous with passion and heart, with a connotation of funk. New Orleans has, quite possibly, the most personality of any U.S. city, and a name that captures its unique and festive character would be a service to the city. I’d much rather see New Orleans build their reputation around “Soul Power” than “Pelican Power”.

The New Orleans Cruisers

The New Orleans Class Cruiser grandfathered the modern gunship. Manufactured in the 1930s and used in the Atlantic during World War II, the New Orleans class was known for its innovative technology and protective capabilities; specifically, its armor. New Orleans is a proud port city with historical prosperity. If they hope to make Davis the future of the franchise, they would do well to adopt a name synonymous with defense and reform.

Gators – Photo credit: Alexander Montuschi

Who says there can only be one team called the Gators? Unless the University of Florida football team decides to storm the hardwood, I see no reason why New Orleans can’t capitalize on Louisiana’s modern-day dino. In fact, I often think to myself that more teams should take a page from the Oligocene and represent this floating, armored, bear-trap of nature. Besides, “N’awlins Gatahs” is too much fun to say for the name not to be considered.

Mariners – Photo credit: Leo Reynolds

In the same vein, New Orleans could borrow from the Seattle Mariners. As I’ve mentioned, New Orleans is a port city; and a successful one. Many teams have been named with some regard to their geography, as it is personal to the residents that support the team. Assuming they have the presence of mind NOT to name the team the New Orleans Hurricanes, a nod to the city’s water-way of life could be a source of pride for the fans.

Unfortunately, Tom Benson owns the trademark for the New Orleans Pelicans, so it seems unlikely we’ll see a change of heart. I’m sure we’ll get used to it. After all, the Spurs, Nuggets, Lakers, and Pistons (to name a few) are odd choices when you think about them. Still, New Orleans is in a position to find a name that will be taken seriously from the get-go. Here’s hoping they know what they’re doing.