When it comes to professional sports, New Jersey has been operating in shadow of its hotter, flashier neighbor, New York City. However, with its massive population and existing sports culture, the Garden State could be a prime candidate for another shot at its own pro team. 

So far, New Jersey hosts a number of Major League teams, including New Jersey Devils (NHL), New York Giants (NFL), New York Jets (NFL), New York Red Bull (MLS), and Brooklyn Nets (NBA). If you are wondering why most of the teams do not carry the New Jersey name, then you are not alone.

Many people have questioned why the Jets, Giants and Red Bulls still carry the name New York, yet they have their stadiums and massive fanbases in NJ. And guess what, they pay their taxes in NJ!

NJ’s Pro Sports Legacy

Given that there are already three “New York” teams who play in NJ, many people don’t see the state being able to support another team. In fact, there are many sports fans who go to find the best New Jersey online betting websites on platforms like the certified betting.us, using wagering as a more immediate and personal way to engage with sports in a market where true local representation remains limited.

However, you should not forget that the state has a rich history with pro sports teams. Historically, it was the home of the NBA’s New Jersey Nets, who relocated to Brooklyn. This was a huge blow to many ardent fans of the team, who could now not go to watch home games. Also, NJ was home to the Newark Bears (minor league baseball), which were operational until 2013. 

Despite these affiliations, New Jersey has often played second fiddle in branding and recognition. 

Why NJ Could Be a Viable Candidate

The truth of the matter is that the Garden State is a very viable contender for a new team. For a start, the state is the 11th-most populous state according to a 2024 US Census Bureau estimate. Major urban hubs like Newark, Jersey City and Paterson have all that is required to be home to a major league team. The fanbase is already there: what else would you need?

When you look at the sports fans in the state, they carry a passion like no other. For instance, the New Jersey Devils fans have often been described as more dedicated and vocal than some of their rivals. The Prudential Center is known for its electric atmosphere (not only when in hosting major concerts), with fans creating a loud and lively environment. Having a team with a true NJ identity would finish the frustrations of being termed as “New York’s backyard.”

Additionally, the state has world-class infrastructure, with the Meadowlands Sports Complex, Red Bull Arena and Prudential Center hosting major games in different sports leagues. As if that’s not enough, you can easily make mass transit from New York to Pennsylvania, meaning that transport is not an issue. 

Could the NBA Expand to NJ?

When the Nets departed in 2012, there was a massive void that was left in the hearts of NBA fans. Many people still remember the early 2000s when the Nets would make back-to-back Finals appearances. Now, the NBA has been actively exploring expansion with the addition of new teams. 

Even though New Jersey is not one of the top contenders (Seattle and Las Vegas have been holding that fort), the state could angle itself to offer a comeback. Something that would differentiate a new team from the Nets’ legacy.

Back in 2022, Shaquille O’Neil dropped hints that he wanted to bring an NBA team “back home.” The fact that Shaq was born in New Jersey may suggest that he was thinking of bringing an NBA team to the Garden State. Over the last few years, the former NBA superstar stated that he wanted to bring an NBA team to Newark. It was his dream, and he would soon accomplish it. Well, the Prudential Center still goes without an NBA team, and Shaq might just be the answer. 

What About Other Teams?

The MLB has not expanded since 1998, but there have been talks of expanding it to 32 teams. NJ is not a frontrunner in this, but the support from a new urban ballpark and a strong commuter base might give it an edge. Since the state does not have an MLB team, having one would work well to challenge the Yankees and the Mets.

For the NFL, it might be a tricky situation since both the Jets and Giants have their home in East Rutherford. However, some sports fans have been heard pushing for at least one of those teams to change their identity and rebrand under New Jersey. The only issue is that the team branding with the New York title often uses it as a marketing term, and rebranding might cause major hurdles. 

For MLS and NHL, the chances of having a new team are highly unlikely. The Devils are already established in Newark, and the Red Bulls in Harrison. For the Red Bulls, the only thing that could work is to rebrand to an NJ identity. Otherwise, the possibilities of expansion are extremely low.

A State Ready But Not Yet Invited

Even though New Jersey has everything needed for a new pro team, it is at the mercy of broader league strategies. The state has the population, fan base and infrastructure needed to tip the odds in its favor. Well, the appetite is there, but the opportunities are still yet lingering from afar.

From a fan’s standpoint, it is a huge disservice to the Garden State to work under the shadow of their rich neighbor, New York. It is true that sports are not just about the game but also about the business, but it does not sit right that major teams playing their home games in NJ and paying their taxes there should not carry the identity of the state.