The New Orleans Pelicans spent more time with fans than they did compete during Open Practice.
Wait? These things are usually scrimmaged. After several years of seeing the squad’s progress, some fans decided to leave the Smoothie King Centre. The New Orleans Pelicans spent more time with fans than they did compete on the court during Open Practice. It was the best decision.
While the team had every right to take in the city and show their love, there was little benefit to having them play public 5-on-5 against one another. While Coach Willie Green ensured the team was on track, he didn’t give ammunition to anyone who wanted to make small-sample judgments about the rotations. This was innovative coaching by the second-year sensation.
Brandon Ingram stated that the energy from the fans was “really, really fun” after the event. Green agreed with Zion Williamson and said he thought it was fantastic. We didn’t have a great beginning last year, but we were right there and had a good playoff run towards the end. It’s building on that momentum this season with us, as well as with the city and our fans.”
Swin Cash, a member of the Naismith Hall of Fame and Pelicans Vice President of Basketball Operations, should be inducted into the hall of fame. He helped to shepherd families as the media moved through the courtside walkways. David Griffin, Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations, spoke with the Pels12 group. Trajan Langdon, General Manager, leaned back on the rail to chat with all who came by.
Media Day was similar to the first day at school. Open Practice was more like a family get-together. In this environment, there was no need to have a scrimmage. Jaxson Hayes and Zion Williamson were able to demonstrate their dunk skills. Devonte Graham recreated the game-winning shot in Oklahoma City, hitting the first-half-court shot. Do you want to ruin all this with defensive rotations?!
The fans were not required to see the scrimmage. First, the team has been working behind closed doors. One thing is the fun shoot-around competitions at the training center’s media access. The roster spot wars were evident in the pelican’s Scoop members Terry Kimble and Terry Kimble’s yelling and clapping as they walked the halls together.
This team is strong, and everyone knows championship potential in the locker room. It was unnecessary to hold a scrimmage in Chicago before the start of the preseason slate. Everyone is aware of their roles and when they may be able to get some time. It was far more effective to build the culture and do some cardio to generate more goodwill for the season.
Something is happening down south. This is why Larry Nance Jr. stayed put, and Williamson sees a bright future for the city. Nance Jr. stated, “Like countless times I’ve said since I’ve been there, the city has been welcoming, fans have been great, and the organization’s been outstanding. This is my 8th year in the NBA. From the experiences I’ve had, I know exactly what I don’t want. This is exactly what my heart desires.”
Williamson commented, “It is great to see that. Because I know my first three year, it was always an entirely different cast. It’s gratifying to see veteran guys want to create something special and stay put. After the last game of the season, I stated that I wanted to be part of something special. “I’m excited to see Larry and CJ stick around.
A scrimmage could have ruined the afternoon. New Orleans, don’t worry! The Pelicans will soon be moving at full speed.