The Names Of The Western Conferences Of NBA zawu(3?~)5
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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. M i& ;1!bg
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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 wilderness where timberwolves make their home. v']_)
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The SanAntonio Spurs(圣安东尼奥马刺): The mythology(传说、的神话) of the "cowboy", solitary, 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. m;~} }~&vQ
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The Dallas Mavericks(达拉斯小牛): The name of the Dallas team also reflects Texas' cowboy past. A "maverick" is a rebellious(叛逆性强的) person who refuses to obey social norms(标准). The word is derived 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. vSR&>Q%X
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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. VKl,m ;&