NEWARD, N.J., June 25 -- The Harlem Wizards, a professional basketball team that has been playing for more than 35 years, filed suit Tuesday to prevent the Washington Bullets of the NBA from changing their name to the Wizards. The lawsuit, which was filed in U.S. District Court in Newark cites trademark infringement, unfair competition, trademark dilution, false designation of origin and service mark misappropriation.
'The use of the name Wizards for two professional basketball teams is confusing,' says Todd Davis, president of the Harlem Wizards. 'My father began the Wizards 37 years ago and his commitment kept the team going while building a solid reputation along the way. Since I became president of the Wizards in 1988, we've had sustained growth. This action by the NBA, if unchecked, would certainly stop our expansion efforts, and destroy the base we've created over the past four decades.' The Washington Bullets plan to officially change their name to the Wizards beginning with the 1997-98 season. The team changed its name after an extensive public campaign during which the team solicited suggested name changes. The Wizards was selected as one of five finalist name changes. Bullets owner Abe Pollin said the team decided to change its nickname as part of an Anti-Violence Campaign.
