The city of Hot Springs’ arena football franchise is taking on a new identity. The Hot Springs Wiseguys will now compete as the Arkansas Diamonds, following the team’s acquisition by The Dels Corporation, led by entrepreneur Mark Bertel.
KTLO News spoke with consultant, Dustin Harrison who explains why they chose the Diamonds as a team name.
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Harrison then went on to share his expectations for the year, and what challenges they are expecting.
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“We didn’t come here to erase history, we came to honor it and build upon it,” Bertel said. “The Wiseguys were the heart of this community. That heart still beats, but now it beats louder, stronger, and statewide.”
Chris Goodman will continue as general manager, and Lauren Hatten remains as director of business development. Both emphasized that the new name symbolizes toughness, resilience, and a broader connection to Arkansas.
The “Diamonds” name also pays tribute to the state’s Crater of Diamonds State Park, the nation’s only public diamond mine.
The team is planning a “trade-in day” for fans who purchased Wiseguys merchandise last season, offering free replacements with the team’s new name and logo. Harrison explains the details.
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The rebrand follows the franchise’s first season, which ended with a championship game appearance. The Diamonds aim to make summer football in Arkansas a statewide tradition.
For updates, fans can follow the team’s official social media channels.
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