NBA Philadelphia 76ers

Philadelphia 76ers Unveil Least Intimidating Mascot in Sports

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The Philadelphia 76ers introduced their new team mascot earlier today at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Franklin, the name of the team’s new mascot, is what the 76ers describe as a “blue dog with perky ears and a wagging tail.” In lieu of a typical jersey number, Franklin wears a Sixers uniform with a paw print in place of a number. Clever, but I’m still not a fan.

Like any good mascot absolutely has to be able to do, Franklin the big blue dog showed off his high-flying abilities during his introduction in what might be the most exciting 76ers play of the last few seasons…

The 76ers focused on Franklin being “for kids, by kids.” By looking at Franklin, you can tell his creators had a young audience in mind when they drew him up. “Franklin’s debut has been long-awaited by Sixers fans, and we could not be more pleased with his reception from the children in attendance at today’s unveiling,” said Sixers Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer Tim McDermott. “Bringing to life our franchise’s new mascot has been a collaborative, kid-focused process from the start that involved more than 1,000 children, season ticket members, and 40-plus designs.”

I know mascots are for the fans, and a younger audience, but I was expecting something at least a little more creative than a fluffy dog. Considering the product the team is sending out on the floor every night, I guess you have to do everything you can to put people in the seats. At least Franklin has proved to have a good personality by calling out noted mascot-hater, Portland center Robin Lopez on Twitter.

The fan reception to Franklin, as I expected, has not been very positive. On the plus side, Franklin can dance…

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