Meet The Next 76ers Mascot

The Philadelphia 76ers announced the nominees for the next mascot of the franchise. Hip Hop, the former jacked up bunny mascot, was relieved of his duty last week. Here are the three finalists that the Jim Henson Creature Shop came up with.

*Biographies via Sixers.com

Big Ben: One of the most revered figures in American history, and a man who needs no introduction as an honorable representation of this city and nation, "Big Ben" Franklin will now come back to serve Philadelphia yet once again. An avid basketball fan, Big Ben was thrilled to be asked to join Philadelphia sports fans in cheering the 76ers on to greatness. As the Sixers new mascot, he will bring electricity to the Wells Fargo Center, and be a towering presence at Sixers games both figuratively and literally as he stands seven-feet tall.

My take: Benjamin Franklin clearly wasn't this tall. He's also obnoxiously out of shape.

B. Franklin Dogg: The All-American pet, B. Franklin Dogg is a loyal Philadelphia resident who can be seen in artist drawings from the day nestled under the table beside Ben Franklin as he deliberated on the founding of the nation. In the revolutionary fervor of the times, B. Franklin Dogg proudly wore patriotic colonial garb to show his spirit. Over the years, B. Franklin Dogg was occasionally seen playing with a basketball around the historic landmarks of Philadelphia, before finally making his way down Broad St. to the Wells Fargo Center.

My take: Too much style, not enough substance. This isn't a fashion how, B. Frank.

Phil E. Moose: One of the most regal animals to roam the wild, Phil E. Moose certainly fits that bill, standing tall as he represents the Sixers (he stands over seven-feet tall in fact, with the antlers). In his youth, Phil E. Moose would often be seen dunking a basketball with ease, aided by his great height. Throughout his high school, collegiate and professional games, Phil E. Moose was a scoring star, and was excited to learn he had been "traded" to the 76ers in order to entertain fans during games at the Wells Fargo Center.

My take: This is the guy. Strong basketball background, catchy name, and like his biography states, one of the most regal animals to roam the wild. Phil E. Moose needs your vote.

What's your take? Vote here.