New Orleans Pelicans

The Pelicans bring vibrant Gulf Coast flair and high-energy NBA action every time they play at Smoothie King Center in downtown New Orleans.¹

Since the franchise’s move from Charlotte in 2002 and official rebrand in 2013, the team has reflected deep local pride and cultural identity rather than simply being a relocated squad.²

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Originally founded as the Charlotte Hornets in 1988, the franchise relocated to New Orleans in 2002 under new ownership. After a two-season hiatus in Oklahoma City following Hurricane Katrina, the team returned in 2007-08 and immediately won their first division title, led by Chris Paul and David West.³

In April 2012, New Orleans businessman Tom Benson purchased the Hornets from former owner George Shinn and the NBA, taking steps to keep the team in the city he loved. Benson, who also owns the NFL’s New Orleans Saints, wanted a name that reflected the local community and culture.⁴

The franchise rebranded as the Pelicans in 2013, drawing inspiration from Louisiana’s state bird and symbolizing a fresh start for basketball in New Orleans.⁴

Over the years, stars like Anthony Davis and Zion Williamson have driven national attention and helped transform the Pelicans into a recognized NBA franchise.⁴

Smoothie King Center opened in 1999 as the New Orleans Arena and has been home to the Pelicans since 2002. It seats 16,867 for regular NBA games and expands to around 18,500 for playoff or college basketball events.⁵

Situated next to the Superdome in the Central Business District, the arena’s lower-bowl layout pulls fans close to the action while its club lounges and modern amenities offer all sorts of different experiences.^1,5

On game nights, music echoes, local flavor bathes the concourses, and fans converge in loud cheers and shared energy.

From a relocation team to an emerging franchise, the Pelicans have earned milestones that have anchored their legacy:

• 2008 Southwest Division Champions: Shortly after returning to New Orleans, the team won its first-ever division title, led by Chris Paul and David West.³
• Hosted NBA All-Star Games in 2008, 2014, and 2017: Smoothie King Center welcomed league-wide festivities showcasing both Pelicans pride and the city’s fan culture.¹
• Notable franchise stars: Chris Paul, Anthony Davis, and Zion Williamson earned multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA honors, lifting this team’s competitive profile.⁴

NBA action runs from fall through spring at Smoothie King Center. Whether you're looking for single-game seats or planning group outings, New Orleans Pelicans tickets are available now at AXS.

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Sources:

1. About Us - Smoothie King Center
2. New Orleans Pelicans - History & Notable Players - Britannica
3. New Orleans Pelicans - Students - Britannica Kids
4. New Orleans Pelicans - Research Starters
5. Where do the New Orleans Pelicans play basketball? Smoothie King Center - Elite Sports Tours
6. New Orleans Pelicans: 3 teams that will be the Pels’ biggest rivals - Pelican Debrief
7. A-Z Guide - Smoothie King Center