The move has long been in the works, but it's been officially
confirmed that they're keeping the Nets moniker.
The return to familiar territory was brought about by JAY-Z’s partnership with NETS Basketball. An investor with the team since 2004, the hip-hop legend was on-hand to announce that he will be the first performer at the Barclays Center when the arena officially opens in September 2012. Additionally, flanked by 25 students from his nearby alma mater, George Westinghouse High School, JAY-Z revealed the team’s name will become the “Brooklyn Nets,” beginning with the 2012-13 NBA season.
“I wanted this to happen like this, because I absolutely am humbled, and I have so much pride as a kid coming from Marcy Projects to stand here and announce two things, out of my partners and ownership: that we named the ‘New Jersey Nets’ the ‘Brooklyn Nets’ and the second is that I open it with a concert,” JAY-Z said. “We’re opening this arena with a concert; maybe one, maybe two, maybe three. I appreciate all the support from Brooklyn, because without Brooklyn I wouldn’t be standing here right now, humbled and excited. So get ready for the Brooklyn Nets. Westinghouse make some noise!”