MORRIS A BIG SHOT?

RECENTLY, the Sixers suggested three possibilities to replace Hip Hop as the team's mascot. The choices: Phil E. Moose, B. Franklin Dogg and Big Ben, a Ben Franklin look-alike.

The public hasn't exactly gone crazy over any of them.

Enter Chris Morris, Carroll High and La Salle University grad, a professional comedian/actor who works with autistic children during the day.

Did we mention he's the son of legendary basketball coach Speedy Morris?

The 32-year-old Morris wants to bring back Big Shot, that large, lumpy, blue dude that looks like a distant cousin of the Phillie Phanatic.

Actually, Morris wants to be Big Shot.

"I used to go to the Sixers games and just watch Big Shot," Morris said. "I loved his performances. My aunt knew Joe Kempo [the guy inside the costume] and he gave me a tape of his performances. I memorized his entire routine. He was really good to me.

"When I was a kid, I had hernia surgery. I was on the couch, and I looked out the window and there was Big Shot blowing a whistle. My mouth dropped. He came in and visited with me. He's been my hero ever since."

One of Morris' friends started a Facebook campaign urging the Sixers to hire Morris to be the new Big Shot. More than 2,000 people have signed on.

Just last week, Sixers' co-owner Adam Aron tweeted: "Been a surprising groundswell for Big Shot. Do you want Big Shot back . . . Yes or No?"

We don't know what Aron will decide, but we're voting for Morris. This city needs a new Big Shot.