The USA’s mascot for the 2026 World Cup, Clutch the Bald Eagle, has a namesake with a lauded career in the sports-spirit trade.

The Houston Rockets introduced Clutch the Rocket Bear in 1995. He’s since been a three-time NBA Mascot of the Year and Mascot Hall of Fame inductee.

Upon FIFA’s unveiling of the three World Cup host countries’ mascots, it explained that Clutch, a midfielder, “possesses an unquenchable thirst for adventure, soaring across the United States and embracing every culture, game and moment with boundless curiosity and optimism.”

“Clutch the Rocket Bear” celebrated his 30th brthday this year. “Clutch the Bald Eagle” just hatched.
  • Trivia: Which World Cup had a mascot for the first time and what was its name? (answer below)

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Soccer America Executive Editor Mike Woitalla has written freelance articles about soccer for more than 30 media outlets in nine nations. The winner of eight United Soccer Coaches Writing Contest awards,...