The arrival of the Utah Mammoth marks a monumental moment for professional sports in Utah. After months of anticipation, fan engagement, and brand development, Utah's newest NHL team has embraced a name and identity that reflect both the region's history and its unifying spirit.

The Birth of the Utah Mammoth

In May 2025, the NHL franchise formerly known as the Utah Hockey Club officially became the Utah Mammoth. This was more than a simple name change; it was the end result of a yearlong process involving over 850,000 fan votes and extensive local input. The new identity pays homage to the prehistoric mammoths that once roamed Utah over 10,000 years ago, rooting the team in both state history and community pride.

According to the franchise's owners, Ryan and Ashley Smith, "The community chose the Utah Mammoth brand, and it stands as a symbol of who we are, where we came from, and the unstoppable force we're building together." Read more about the historic selection process on ESPN.

A Unique and Meaningful Identity

The Utah Mammoth name is deeply connected to the local landscape and history. Numerous mammoth fossils have been discovered across Utah—in Bear Lake, Fillmore, Orem, and Huntington Canyon, where a complete skeleton was unearthed in 1988. This rich prehistory inspired not only the team's name but also its branding and logo design.

The Mammoth's logo features:

• The iconic prehistoric mammoth with a distinctive curved tusk,
• The snow-capped Wasatch Mountains forming the top of its head,
• The silhouette of Utah hidden within the design,
• And a subtle "M" and "U" that tie back to the state and the Mammoth name.

The rallying call "Tusks Up" has already begun to resonate with fans across the state, expressing unity and excitement for the team.

Fan Involvement and Brand Evolution

Choosing the Utah Mammoth was not a top-down decision. From the start, the Smith Entertainment Group invited fans to participate in several rounds of voting, narrowing down from twenty possible team names. Early favorites like "Yeti" were ultimately ruled out due to trademark issues, but "Mammoth"—which symbolizes strength, endurance, and unity—quickly became the fan favorite. For a detailed look at the naming journey and community involvement, KSL.com offers great insights.

The result is a brand that feels authentic and deeply rooted in Utah culture. The team retained its inaugural season color palette—blue, black, and white—and introduced modern designs that blend tradition with a fresh visual identity.

Jerseys, Merchandise, and Next Steps

Utah Mammoth merchandise is already flying off the shelves, from hats and hoodies to shirts featuring the team’s bold new marks. Jerseys will debut ahead of the next season, with the home version showcasing the Mammoth logo and the away jersey featuring a sharp "Utah" diagonal wordmark. These designs celebrate both the franchise’s future and its foundational season as the Utah Hockey Club.

Looking ahead, fans can expect not only thrilling hockey but also a host of Mammoth-inspired experiences at the Delta Center. The team has hinted at a new mascot and plenty of community events to further establish its place in the local sports landscape.

Conclusion: A New Legacy Begins

The Utah Mammoth is more than just a name—it's a tribute to Utah's storied past and a rallying point for the state's growing hockey community. With its powerful imagery, meaningful fan engagement, and deep roots in local history, the Utah Mammoth stands poised to become a beloved institution for generations. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey supporter or new to the sport, now is the perfect time to join the movement and put your tusks up for Utah’s newest team.