New orleans pelicans history

The New Orleans Pelicans are a professional basketball team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The team was established in 2002 as the New Orleans Hornets, and was renamed the Pelicans in 2013. Here is a brief history of the team:

Early Years (2002-2008)

The New Orleans Hornets were founded in 2002 as an expansion team in the National Basketball Association (NBA). The team was owned by George Shinn, who had previously owned the Charlotte Hornets. The team played their first game in 2002 and finished their inaugural season with a record of 29-53.

In their early years, the Hornets struggled to find success on the court, finishing with a winning record only once in their first six seasons. However, they did have some notable players during this period, including Jamal Mashburn, Baron Davis, and Chris Paul.

Chris Paul Era (2005-2011)

In 2005, the Hornets drafted Chris Paul, who would go on to become one of the greatest players in franchise history. Paul led the team to their first playoff appearance in 2004 and helped them win their first division title in 2008.

During Paul's time with the team, the Hornets became a consistent playoff contender, making the postseason five times in six years. However, Paul left the team in 2011 to join the Los Angeles Clippers.

Post-Chris Paul Era (2011-2013)

After Paul's departure, the Hornets struggled to find consistency and success on the court. The team went through several coaches and players, including a brief stint with coach Monty Williams.

In 2012, the team was sold to a new ownership group led by Tom Benson, who also owned the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League. The team was renamed the Pelicans in 2013, in honor of the state bird of Louisiana.

Pelicans Era (2013-Present)

The Pelicans have had some success since their name change, including a playoff appearance in 2015 and a division title in 2018. The team has also had some notable players, including Anthony Davis, who was drafted by the team in 2012 and became one of the best players in the league.

In 2019, the Pelicans traded Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers, but the team has continued to build around young players like Zion Williamson, who was drafted by the team in 2019. The Pelicans have also made some significant moves in free agency, including signing guard Lonzo Ball and center Derrick Favors.

Notable Moments and Achievements

Overall, the New Orleans Pelicans have had a mixed history, with some successful periods and some struggles. However, the team has a loyal fan base and is working to build a consistent winner in the NBA.