The Charlotte Bobcats have announced that they have completed their name change, reverting to the Charlotte Hornets.
The Hornets were based in Charlotte from 1988 to 2002 before moving to New Orleans, paving the way for the Bobcats to be formed in 2004, but the Hornets name became available again when New Orleans rebranded as the Pelicans last year.
The team's CEO Fred Whitfield said at a press conference: "For me, this day is almost surreal because I was a Hornets season ticket holder. I know what it felt like in the old Hive and the energy and excitement that happened to be there.
"Michael [Jordan, the team's owner] talks fondly about the days he came in and played against the Hornets and what a challenge it was not only to battle a good team but also the fans.
"That was a piece that was really important to us because we knew how important that was to our fans. Being able to have the old Hornets alumni back and be a part of family was important. We can say to them, 'Hey, you are welcome back and you are a part of the family'."
The team is due to unveil its new uniforms next month, while the Hugo the Hornet mascot is also set to return.
