The Names Of The Western Conferences Of NBA

　　Several weeks ago, we had discussed the meaning of the team names in the National Basketball Association’s Eastern Conference. This time we move on to the Western Conference.

　　The Minnesota Timberwolves(明尼苏达森林狼):the Timberwolves’ name actually makes sense. Minnesota, which is located on the border with Canada, contains large expanses of forested wilderness¹ where timberwolves make their home.

　　The SanAntonio Spurs(圣安东尼奥马刺): The mythology(传说、的神话) of the "cowboy", solitary², tough and self-reliant, has long been an important part of the American national identity, particularly in Texas, where San Antonio is located. Spurs are sharp metal devices attached to a cowboy’s boots. By jabbing a horse’s flanks with the spurs, the cowboy can encourage his mount(座骑) to run faster.

　　The Dallas Mavericks(达拉斯小牛): The name of the Dallas team also reflects Texas’ cowboy past. A "maverick³" is a rebellious(叛逆性强的) person who refuses to obey social norms(标准). The word is derived⁴ from the name of Samuel Maverick (1803-1870), a Texas rancher(农场主)who refused to brand(为小牛烙印标识)his cattle.

　　The Houston Rockets(休斯顿火箭): The NASA(美国国家航空航天局) Mission Control Center is located in Houston; hence the name "Rockets". Ironically, no actual rockets are ever launched into space from Houston -- launches take place at a separate facility in Florida.

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