Additionally, American sports can't be entirely detached from the context that surrounds them. There are reasons why the Fighting Illini attract more scrutiny than the Fighting Irish. There is painful and unfortunate history there, and its effects alter what the nicknames really mean.

So here's to the people who have it right. Here's to Washington Wizards owner Abe Pollin, who realized a few years back that the Bullets might not be the right team to represent the murder capital of the country. Here's to schools like St. John's, who ceased being Redmen a decade ago.

Here's to the NFL's expansion Houston Texans, whose name is simple and classy (albeit incredibly unoriginal). Here's to other team names that appeal those who prefer pinstripes, blues or grays to teal-the Cowboys, the Bears and-it hurts to say it-the Yankees and Bulls.

And, if it turns out that way, here's to the Memphis Express. It could always be worse.