New Orleans, a vibrant city known for its rich history and culture, has been a proud member of the NBA community since 2002. Originally known as the New Orleans Hornets, the city's basketball team underwent a significant rebranding in 2013, adopting the name 'Pelicans'. The transformation was not just about a new logo or a fresh jersey design; it was a deeper reflection of the city's identity and heritage.
To understand the name change to the Pelicans, it's important to look back at the team's origins. The franchise, which was founded in Charlotte as the Hornets relocated to New Orleans in 2002. For over a decade, the team played under this moniker. However, a name rooted in another city's history made the desire for a more localized identity inevitable.
New Orleans Hornets Name Change
Since the brown pelican is the state bird of Louisiana, the owners of the franchise thought it would resonate better with the city of New Orleans. After Tom Benson bought the team in 2012 for around $338 million, he felt there was no connection between the city and the name Hornets. Adding to this, he said, “pelicans would form a better bond with the city.”
Since being rebranded to the New Orleans Pelicans, the franchise has strengthened its bond with the local fan base and city culture. This successful rebranding of the franchise has continued to encourage a sense of unity and pride among fans.
New Orleans Head Coach
Willie Green has been the head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans since July 2021. Before joining the Pelicans, he was the assistant coach of the Phoenix Suns. Green also played in the NBA for 12 years.
Green led the Pelicans to the playoffs in his first season as head coach. The team qualified for the postseason through the play-in tournament, where they lost to the Phoenix Suns. Due to injuries to key players Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, the Pelicans missed the playoffs in the 2022/23 season. Williamson’s health has been a big concern for the Pelicans, and the 2019 first overall pick has only played 114 games for the franchise till date. In 29 games in the 2022/23 season, Williamson averaged 26.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game.
FAQs
A. The New Orleans Pelicans were established in 1988.
A. The mascot name of the New Orleans Pelicans is, “Pierre the Pelican.”
A. The New Orleans Pelicans play their home games at “Smoothie King Center.”
A. The official motto of the New Orleans Pelicans is, “Won’t Bow Down.”
