Bobcats (sports team)

The Charlotte Bobcats were a professional basketball team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and part of the NBA from 2004 to 2014. Named after the bobcat, a native North Carolina animal, they competed in the league's Eastern Conference. The team struggled initially with performance and fan support but rebranded as the Charlotte Hornets in 2014, reviving the historic franchise name. The Bobcats were known for developing young players and contributing to the NBA's growth in the southeastern United States. Their relatively short history included efforts to build competitive teams and establish a strong local presence before becoming the Hornets again.