The Charlotte Bobcats selected Rufus Lynx as the name for the team’s new mascot, it was announced today by Ed Tapscott, Bobcats executive vice president and chief operating officer. The announcement was made during a mascot appearance at the Belk department store in SouthPark Mall.

“We look forward to Rufus Lynx becoming as much a fixture in the Charlotte community as our players and coaches will be,” said Tapscott. “From school visits to special events to entertaining performances on the court, Rufus will surely become a fan favorite for Bobcats supporters of all ages.” The new mascot name was chosen using a process that included feedback from fans through the Bobcats website, www.bobcatsbasketball.com, legal reviews, creative analysis and input from team owner Robert L. Johnson.

The name Rufus was overwhelmingly the fan favorite through voting on the team’s website. The Bobcats conducted a poll for name suggestions following the mascot’s unveiling on November 1 and Rufus received the majority of votes.

Rufus Lynx has other ties to the Bobcats as the scientific name for bobcat is Lynx Rufus. The animals are athletic, agile, sleek, hard-working and tenacious, attributes that closely reflect those found in a professional basketball team. The bobcat profile is also prominent in the team’s logo.

Organizations wishing to schedule Rufus Lynx for an event or function should call the Bobcats at (704) 424-4131.

The Charlotte Bobcats, who select fourth in the 2004 NBA Draft following an expansion draft of players from other NBA teams, will play their inaugural season in 2004-05 at the Charlotte Coliseum before moving to Charlotte’s new Uptown Arena beginning with the 2005-06 NBA season.