NEW ORLEANS PELICANS
The New Orleans Pelicans originally entered the NBA as an expansion team in 1988 as the Charlotte Hornets and went on to make seven playoff appearances during their time in Charlotte. After the ball club moved to New Orleans in 2002 they would enjoy sustained success, which has enabled them to qualify for the playoffs five times.
The Hornets made playoff appearances in their first two years in New Orleans behind the leadership of Jamal Mashburn, Baron Davis and Kenny Anderson. Unfortunately, injuries derailed the Hornets' chances of securing a title, and they were knocked out of the tournament in the first round in 2003 and 2004.
The fortunes of the squad changed when they drafted All-Star point guard Chris Paul before the 2005-06 season, who later went on to garner the coveted honor of Rookie of the Year. The Hornets would return to the playoffs during the 2007-08 season and win their first playoff series ever in New Orleans by toppling the Dallas Mavericks. Unfortunately, the team went on to face the battle-tested San Antonio Spurs in the second round and were knocked out in seven games.
After a forgettable first round exit in the playoffs during the 2008-09 season, the Hornets would return to the playoffs during the 2010-11 season, but were overtaken by the Los Angeles Lakers in a highly competitive first round series.
Under the leadership of a new coach, new general manager, and new mascot the Pelicans are likely hoping to extend the momentum they have had in the past to go all the way to the title game.
See also:
NBA Finals tickets
New Orleans Pelicans tickets
NBA All-Star Weekend tickets
NBA tickets