Pelicans Basketball Stadium

Pelicans' Home Court: A History of the Smoothie King Center

Early Years

The Smoothie King Center, originally known as the New Orleans Arena, was completed in 1999 at a cost of $114 million. It officially opened on October 19, 1999, and became the home of the New Orleans Hornets (now Pelicans) NBA team. The arena has a seating capacity of 17,805 for concerts and 16,867 for basketball games.

New Orleans Hornets to New Orleans Pelicans

In 2013, a new era for NBA basketball in New Orleans began when the New Orleans Hornets were renamed the New Orleans Pelicans. The name change was part of a rebranding effort to create a more unique and recognizable identity for the team.

Smoothie King Era

The newest era of basketball in New Orleans began in 2002 when the Charlotte Hornets moved to the city and began play at the Smoothie King Center. This move marked the return of professional basketball to New Orleans after the original Hornets franchise relocated to Charlotte in 2002.

Get Your Tickets

Don't miss out on the excitement of NBA basketball in New Orleans. Score tickets to the next Pelicans home game and witness the latest chapter in the storied history of the Smoothie King Center.

For more information, visit the official website of the New Orleans Pelicans or the Smoothie King Center.