The Central Illinois Drive started in 2012 by Bloomington-Normal Sonic owner Jim Bob Morris. (Photo by Lynn)

By Stephanie Pawlowski and Laura Ewan

BLOOMINGTON - Professional basketball is coming back to Bloomington for a second season with a new name, mascot and colors.

The Bloomington Flex is being led by former Central Illinois Drive Executive Vice President Scott Henderson. The Flex will open the 2013 season with Drive coach A.J. Guyton returning to the team. Henderson said the details are still being worked out, but he intends for the Flex to play in the Premier Basketball League.

Henderson joined Scott and Colleen on the morning show to talk about changes to the team. Henderson said keeping the Drive name was not a possibility, hence the reason for a name change. He also said he hopes that many players from last year will return, but some are overseas playing.  As for a mascot, Henderson says he sees a guy flexing his muscles or something along those lines.

"Most of our sponsors really enjoyed the experience last year and they are coming back," said Henderson. He said he is sure there will also be some new sponsors and some will want to wait and see how everything plays out.

There are open tryouts on Sunday, Dec. 16 at IWU's Shirk Center. Eligibility requirements are the same as the NBA. Prospective players can pre-register online at flexbasketball.com at a discounted rate of $100.

Listen to the Scott Henderson podcast.

Stephanie Pawlowski can be reached at Stephanie.Pawlowski@Cumulus.com