Hornets to change nickname to Pelicans
The New Orleans Hornets are expected to become the Pelicans as early as the 2013-14 season.
A change of the nickname has been expected since Tom Benson purchased the team. Benson owns the rights to the nickname Pelicans and has actively been pushing for that nickname for years. Louisiana is known as the Pelican State. Gayle Benson, Tom’s wife, said she wants to change the team’s colors to navy blue, red and gold.
The Hornets also considered the nicknames Krewe (groups of costumed paraders in the annual Mardi Gras carnival in New Orleans) and Brass.
With the Hornets abandoning their nickname, the Charlotte Bobcats can possibly change their name.
A Hornets’ spokesman denied that a change to the Pelicans was final.
“We’re not confirming that is the name,’’ Greg Bensel said. “This is a process that’s ongoing and still in discussions. And it will be eventually decided by the NBA.’’
The Hornets moved to New Orleans from Charlotte in 2002.
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Understanding that the Pelican is an endangered species, is the official animal of the state of Louisiana, and is in the State’s seal, yet and still it is a sorry pro team’s name! It in no way expresses fear or fight.
For Charlotte getting back their “Hornets” name is crucial. God Save MJ.