NBA Affiliate Leagues Lead TaJuan Watson and Naming Criteria Vetting Lead Dr. Ana Rita Morais let us in on how fan input, legal considerations, and cultural relevance are shaping the identity of Toronto's new WNBA team.
In this episode of Bringing Home the W, we dive into the exciting journey of naming Toronto's new WNBA team. Host Tanya Casole-Gouveia and co-host Josh McConnell are joined by TaJuan Watson, the NBA’s Affiliate Leagues Lead, and Dr. Ana Rita Morais, Design Mentor and Naming Criteria Vetting Lead, to unpack the complex process of creating a team identity that resonates with fans across Canada. From navigating legal considerations to ensuring cultural relevance and inclusivity, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into how the WNBA, Canada, and the basketball community are all coming together to shape a team that truly represents them.
[5:06] - Key guardrails for naming a WNBA team
[8:04] - The components of a team name
[10:18] - Why an emotional response is crucial for a team’s success
[17:23] - The vetting process for name submissions
[22:34] - The marketing potential of a team name