Benson wants Pelicans game at the Smoothie King Center to feel like Saints games at the SuperdomeNBAE/GETTY IMAGES
Saints and Pelicans Owner Gayle Benson this week made it clear that she "isn't treating the Pelicans as some stepchild to the Saints," according to Rod Walker of NOLA.com. Benson spoke at a Greater New Orleans Quarterback Club luncheon this week, and reminded the audience of "how many days were left" until the Pelicans start their season. SMG Exec VP/Stadiums & Arenas Doug Thornton also spoke yesterday about the "importance" of the Mercedes-Benz Superdome and Smoothie King Center. Thornton said SMG is "already talking about what we can do at the Smoothie King Center." He added, "We have to compete in the NBA and the NFL." Benson said that she and her staff have "been busy this offseason working to ensure the Smoothie King Center is rocking during Pelicans' games the same way the Dome does Sundays." Benson: "To help create that kind of environment, our staff is working on re-imaging the entire Pelicans' game presentation. We are working with groups like Disney and others to innovate the way our fans experience the game" (NOLA.com, 8/27).
