The Washington Wizards began as the Chicago Packers in 1961, spent several seasons in Baltimore, and finally landed in Washington, as the Washington Bullets, in 1974. ...On May 15, the team officially became known as the Washinton Wizards, a decision made by owner Abe Pollin in conjunction with the team's anti-violence campaign. At the same time, the team prepared for a move from suburban Landover, Maryland, to the MCI Center in downtown Washington. -NBA.com