NBA approves Hornets name returning to Charlotte Posted Jul 18, 2013 Charlotte is the home of the Hornets once again. The NBA unanimously approved Charlotte's nickname change from Bobcats to Hornets on Thursday. The original Hornets built a supportive fan base in Charlotte from the time they entered the league in 1988 until they moved to New Orleans in 2002. But the new owners in New Orleans have changed the team's name to the Pelicans. That opened the door for owner Michael Jordan to bring the Hornets name back to Charlotte. The change will take place after the 2013-14 season. (WRAL Sports Fan)