Across North America’s Big Four sports leagues — the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL — only 10 teams feature a color directly in their name. These names aren’t random; they carry history, identity, and emotional connection that stretch far beyond the uniforms.
Whether it’s the passion of red, the trust of blue, or the glory of gold, these teams wear their colors proudly — both in name and in spirit.
The 10 Teams with Colors in Their Names
Here’s the complete list of teams whose names include a color:
- Toronto Blue Jays (MLB) – The Blue Jays’ name was chosen in 1977 to reflect both the vibrant bird native to Canada and the color that defines many of Toronto’s sports franchises, including the Maple Leafs.
- Chicago Blackhawks (NHL) – Named for the World War I military division known as the “Black Hawk Division,” the name carries a historical and cultural legacy that’s as bold as its color.
- Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL) – “Blue Jackets” honors the Union soldiers of the American Civil War who wore blue uniforms, tying Ohio’s history to the team’s identity.
- St. Louis Blues (NHL) – Inspired by W.C. Handy’s classic song “St. Louis Blues,” the name perfectly captures the city’s musical roots and the calming power of its signature color.
- Vegas Golden Knights (NHL) – The “Golden” symbolizes excellence and achievement, while “Knights” reflects courage and honor — a fitting name for Las Vegas’s first major sports franchise.
- Detroit Red Wings (NHL) – Originating from the 1930s, the name reflects both the red color of their uniforms and the “winged wheel,” a tribute to Detroit’s auto industry.
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB) – One of baseball’s oldest franchises, the Reds took their name from the red stockings worn by the team in the 19th century — a name that’s endured since 1869.
- Boston Red Sox (MLB) – The Red Sox adopted their name in 1908, inspired by the color of their uniform socks and as a branding move to rival the New York Yankees.
- Chicago White Sox (MLB) – The Red Sox’s American League counterparts, the White Sox chose their name to emphasize their crisp, clean uniforms and distinct contrast from their Boston rivals.
- Cleveland Browns (NFL) – While “Brown” may seem like a color, the team name actually honors its first coach, Paul Brown — though the color connection has become iconic over time.
Why Color Names Stick
Colors evoke emotion — and in sports, emotion is everything.
- Red teams like the Red Sox and Red Wings channel energy, passion, and intensity.
- Blue teams such as the Blue Jays and Blue Jackets convey trust, loyalty, and calm confidence.
- Gold represents achievement and prestige, while white often stands for tradition and purity.
These associations help fans feel a deeper connection, making the names timeless symbols of identity.
A Rare Branding Tradition
With hundreds of pro teams across the major leagues, it’s remarkable that only ten have chosen to feature colors in their official names. Each does it differently — some rooted in history, others in symbolism — but all have managed to make their color part of their cultural DNA.
Final Takeaway
From the Toronto Blue Jays’ bright optimism to the Vegas Golden Knights’ shining ambition, these ten teams show how a simple color can define an entire franchise. Whether red, blue, white, gold, or brown, their names remind fans that in sports, color isn’t just design — it’s identity.