Tulsa WNBA Franchise Reveals Team Name

Originally Published: Jan 23, 2010 2:52 PM CDT

Oklahoma Sports Staff

Tulsa's WNBA franchise will be known as the Tulsa Shock with black, red and gold colors.

"The Tulsa Shock, I love it,” head coach Nolan Richardson said in a statement released by the team.“Having an identity gets me more excited because I know we’re one step closer to tip-off, and we’ll look good when that day comes.”

The organization unveiled the name at the BOK Center at halftime of the Harlem Globetrotters game Saturday. The franchise was previously known as the Detroit Shock.

“I think it’s clear the Shock name resonated with fans because of the championship history it invokes, as well as the feelings of speed and power it brings. Our new name and identity fits perfectly with the style of play Coach Richardson brings to the team,” team President Steve Swetoha said in a statement released by the Shock. “It’s the same name with a whole new meaning.”

The team allowed fans to vote online between two other potential nicknames: Tempo and Fire. The name “Shock” received the highest amount of votes with 38 percent. Tempo finished second with 32 percent and Fire was third with 30 percent.

The Shock's season tips off Saturday, May 15.