What was the original name of Pearl Jam before the band adopted its final name?

Pearl Jam originally performed under the name Mookie Blaylock. The name referred to the professional basketball player who wore number 10, which later inspired the title of Pearl Jam’s debut album, Ten.

The group formed in Seattle in 1990 from musicians connected to the recently dissolved band Mother Love Bone. The early lineup included guitarist Stone Gossard, bassist Jeff Ament, guitarist Mike McCready, and drummer Dave Krusen, with Eddie Vedder joining as vocalist.

The band changed its name to Pearl Jam before releasing its debut album on Epic Records. Mookie Blaylock is therefore the group’s original name, not an alternate title for Ten or a separate Seattle band. The connection remained visible in the band’s early history and album artwork.