In 1946, the Baltimore franchise was nicknamed Bullets after a nearby ammunition foundry. Though the team disbanded, the Chicago Packers -- who later became the Chicago Zephyrs -- relocated to Baltimore, and in 1963, the Bullets nickname returned.
In 1996, team owner Abe Pollin decided to adopt a nickname that portrayed a non-violent image, and selected Wizards. The name depicts energy and an omnipresent power, and brings to light what is hoped to be the wise and magical nature of the team.