The roots of the team can be traced back to SG Nürnberg, an ice hockey club that played in the 2nd Bundesliga from 1958 until it was closed down in 1980 due to financial issues.

In the early 1990s, financial uncertainties with German professional ice hockey led to the foundation of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga – DEL.

As the DEL replaced the 1st Bundesliga and now represents the highest level of German professional ice hockey, this resulted in a promotion.

For the following season, the professional team was separated from the non-profit organization and incorporated as the Nürnberg Ice Tigers, with the youth and amateurs keeping the old name.

An investor group led by local jeweler Thomas Sabo intervened on 3 April 2009, pre-empting bankruptcy proceedings and ensuring participation in the 2009–10 season.