Buzz
Mascots are a major reason many of us attend the games. These figures in disguise often surprise us with their hidden talents while keeping the crowd thoroughly entertained. Prepare yourself for some cringeworthy (or even laughable) moments as we introduce ten sports teams with the most unattractive mascots. From outlandish creatures to bizarre choices, these mascots may forever change what we consider 'ugly.'
10. Nittany Lion at Penn State University
Penn State University, located in State College, Pennsylvania, is the home of one of the most successful college football programs ever. The Nittany Lion has been the university's official mascot since 1907, inspired by the mountain lions that once roamed the nearby Nittany Mountains.
The Nittany Lion symbolizes strength, courage, and loyalty. It is a much-loved figure among Penn State students, alumni, and fans. This mascot can be seen at nearly every Penn State football game, leading the team onto the field and energizing the crowd with its powerful roar. It also appears at other university events like graduations and charity functions.
While some may view the Nittany Lion as cute or cartoonish, it has gone through numerous redesigns to appear fiercer and more athletic. The latest version of the mascot showcases a muscular frame, sharp claws, and a fierce expression.
9. WuShock at Wichita State
Wichita State University, home to the Shockers, boasts an unusual mascot named WuShock. WuShock has represented the university since 1936, evolving through several redesigns over the years to reflect the changing times.
The current incarnation of WuShock is a human-like shock of wheat, with bulging muscles, a furrowed brow, and a fierce stare. The wheat symbolizes Kansas's agricultural heritage, and the name 'Shockers' comes from the wheat harvesters who would bundle the wheat into shocks.
Although WuShock may not be the most traditionally attractive mascot, his distinct appeal has garnered a dedicated fan base. He is famous for his high-energy performances, including acrobatic stunts and lively dance moves that energize the crowd.
Although WuShock is widely admired today, it was once met with criticism. In its early years, some viewed the mascot as reinforcing negative stereotypes about rural Kansas, and there were even calls to replace it. Over time, however, WuShock has evolved into a beloved symbol of both the university and the state.
8. Hip Hop at the Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers, a professional basketball team with a rich history dating back to 1946, have introduced several mascots over the years. Yet, none have sparked as much discussion as their current mascot, Hip Hop.
Hip Hop is a breakdancing rabbit donning a basketball jersey who performs during halftime shows. Despite his moves, he has earned a reputation as one of the ugliest mascots in sports history.
Instead of choosing a fearsome animal or a human-like figure, the 76ers opted for a rabbit. Hip Hop's design has been widely criticized for its poorly proportioned body and head, and its unsettling smile, which some say resembles a grimace.
Interestingly, Hip Hop wasn't always the 76ers' mascot. Before him, there was a bald eagle named Big Shot, who retired in 1996. The team then introduced Phil E. Moose, a moose mascot, but he too was retired after a few seasons.
In 1997, the 76ers introduced Hip Hop as their mascot, and he's been the face of the team ever since. Despite his peculiar look, he quickly became a fan favorite thanks to his lively halftime performances and interactions with the audience. Hip Hop has also appeared on major media outlets such as ESPN and The Today Show.
7. Squatch at the Seattle Supersonics
The Seattle Supersonics, a basketball team established in 1967, called Seattle home until 2008. That year, the team moved to Oklahoma City and became the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Supersonics were famous for their vibrant green and yellow colors, which their mascot, Squatch, proudly flaunted on his untidy fur.
Squatch is inspired by the legendary Sasquatch, or Bigfoot, a mysterious and hairy ape-like creature thought to dwell in the forests of the Pacific Northwest. While Squatch is a friendlier version of this mythical beast, his wild eyes and enormous feet still give him a less-than-perfect appearance.
Though Squatch may not have the most conventional looks, he has become an endearing symbol for Seattle Supersonics fans. Serving as the team’s official mascot since 1993, he’s known for his vibrant dance moves, playful antics, and fun-loving spirit. He's even managed to impress the crowd by dunking basketballs during halftime events.
6. Friar Dom at Providence College
Providence College, a prestigious private Catholic institution in Rhode Island, has an impressive history in athletics, particularly basketball. Their mascot, Friar Dom, is a towering, bald figure with a bushy white beard, donning a black robe and a large gold cross. While his attire is faithful to the tradition of a friar, his oversized head and facial features lend him an unexpectedly intimidating appearance.
Originally, Providence College’s mascot was Betsy the mule, who assisted in carrying the team's equipment to games. In 1947, a student donned the garb of a friar for a game, and the crowd's positive reaction led to the official adoption of the friar as the school’s mascot.
Despite his intimidating look, Friar Dom has won the hearts of Providence College supporters. He can frequently be spotted rallying the student section and energizing the crowd during basketball matches. Embodying the school’s religious values and dedication to service, Friar Dom serves as a reminder of the institution’s heritage.
5. The Tree at Stanford University
Stanford University, located in Silicon Valley, California, is known for its prestigious academic reputation and impressive athletic achievements. However, one part of Stanford’s identity remains less than stellar: its mascot, the Stanford Tree.
The Stanford Tree is constructed from multiple shades of green fabric, with a comical tree face featuring a large nose and a crooked smile. The mascot’s limbs are long and thin, giving the impression of a giant insect rather than a tree.
In 1975, a group of students designed the original Stanford Tree as a new mascot for the university. However, the administration rejected the idea, banning the tree from official events. Nevertheless, the students persisted, dressing up as the tree and attending sporting events, eventually earning the mascot a beloved status within the community.
In 1981, Stanford officially recognized the Stanford Tree as its mascot, though with a peculiar condition. The tree was prohibited from speaking or engaging with the crowd during games. This restriction has led to some awkward moments, as the tree is often seen enthusiastically dancing and waving its arms, all in silence.
Although its odd appearance and backstory might raise eyebrows, the Stanford Tree has emerged as a beloved symbol of the university's eccentric and rebellious character.
4. King Cake Baby at the New Orleans Pelicans
While the New Orleans Pelicans may be soaring high in the NBA standings, their mascot, King Cake Baby, is far from winning any beauty awards. This unusual character stems from a Mardi Gras custom in New Orleans, where a small plastic baby is hidden in a cake. The person who discovers the baby is believed to have good fortune, but with the Pelicans' mascot, it seems luck may have skipped town.
Introduced in 2014, King Cake Baby has since sparked intense reactions among fans and viewers. With its gigantic head, unsettling eyes, and sinister grin, it’s no surprise that it has been labeled a nightmarish creation.
Adding to its oddity, King Cake Baby has been known to play pranks on both fans and players. On one occasion, it sneaked up behind a player, startling him to the ground. Despite its terrifying look, King Cake Baby has sparked a range of merchandise, from T-shirts to hats to plush toys.
3. Willie the Wave at Pepperdine University
Pepperdine University, nestled in the scenic Malibu, California, is a private Christian institution known for its stunning Pacific Ocean views. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about its mascot, Willie the Wave.
Willie is a blue, anthropomorphic wave complete with arms, legs, and a face. His design resembles a poorly drawn character from a children's cartoon, with bulging eyes and an overly exaggerated grin. The mascot’s appearance is so bizarre that it’s difficult to take him seriously.
Despite his unconventional and unappealing look, Willie the Wave has served as Pepperdine University's official mascot since 1945. Initially, the mascot was a live pelican called 'Captain Pelican.' In the 1940s, the school opted for a more traditional mascot, choosing a wave to reflect its coastal location.
Willie is also known for his lively dance moves and his knack for energizing the crowd at Pepperdine sports events. He has become a cherished figure on campus, with numerous students and alumni sharing fond memories of their encounters with him.
2. The Blue Blob at Xavier University
Blue Blob serves as the mascot for Xavier University, a private Catholic institution located in Cincinnati, Ohio. The university is well-known for its competitive athletic program, with 18 varsity teams competing in the Big East Conference. Despite its prominent sports culture, the choice of Blue Blob as the mascot has sparked discussions among sports fans.
The Blue Blob made its debut in 1985, designed by a graphic artist who drew inspiration from the university's blue and white color scheme. The quirky, blob-like character is marked by its oversized eyes and wide grin, resembling a mix of a blueberry and a creature from a horror film.
Over time, the Blue Blob has become an essential part of Xavier University's spirit, regularly seen at athletic events supporting the Musketeers and delighting the audience. The mascot's lively performances have earned it recognition, including winning the 2007 Mascot National Championship.
1. Boltman at San Diego Chargers
Boltman, the official mascot of the San Diego Chargers, is often regarded as one of the most unconventional mascots in sports. This electrifying figure, with his exaggerated head and bolt-shaped antennas, certainly makes an impression – though not necessarily a positive one. Boltman is a bizarre fusion of a lightning bolt and a man, resulting in a rather unsettling character that seems to have been created by a mad scientist.
The San Diego Chargers, now known as the Los Angeles Chargers, is a professional American football team that was established in 1960. Over the years, the team has had various logos and mascots, but Boltman has become the most iconic. The peculiar mascot was born in 1996, when devoted Chargers supporter Dan Jauregui crafted him to demonstrate his love for the team.
Boltman’s large head, shaped like a lightning bolt, is paired with red and blue goggles and a sinister grin, giving him the look of a disturbed superhero. The bolt-shaped antennas protruding from his head add to his cyborg-like appearance, further enhancing his unusual and unsettling vibe.
Despite his strange appearance, Boltman can be seen at every home game, leading the charge and getting the crowd fired up. His lively antics include dancing on the sidelines, executing backflips, and tossing T-shirts into the stands. Boltman’s energy is enough to electrify any Chargers fan in attendance.
