Why Friday’s game against the Wizards could change basketball in New Orleans forever

The New Orleans Pelicans have the city buzzing for the first time in almost four years. As can often happen when times are good, there’s a citywide effort asking for max support ahead of Friday’s game. History can be made against Washington, and there’s hope that a winning streak isn’t the only thing destined to change afterwards.

Friday the New Orleans Pelicans have a chance to make franchise history. Winning 11 straight would be a feat that should forever lock the Pelicans in the hearts of NOLA natives.

Most may assume that’s already the case given the reputation the city carries. A happy-go-lucky, partying, persevering city that even in the most stubborn cases, stands by its own. The reality is, New Orleans is mostly a football town that gradually ignores basketball until it doesn’t have a choice.

And honestly, it’s hard to blame the average fan. Basketball in the Big Easy has had its troubles. From stars departing and ownership switches, to reoccurring roster construction failures. They’ve seen it all, and possibly after getting behind the misery of one team for so long simply didn’t have room for another.

We could also talk about the differences in attention to detail the Saints receive versus the Pelicans. Going to a Saints game feels ”like New Orleans”, no matter the time of year. Going to a Pelicans game can feel like any ordinary experience most nights.

For a city so special, you would and should expect more. New Orleans has always been loyal but it’s clear their trust has to be earned first. Friday’s game can change all of that. A March 9th home game for most teams shouldn’t bring much more than a bobblehead give away.

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However, for the Pelicans, this game means much more. Hell, it’s being marketed like a playoff game. Everybody from Pelicans players and media members, to Saints alumni all are pitching in what should be an electric crowd.

If that wasn’t enough, Saints star wide receiver Mike Thomas brought the chip he carries on the field to Twitter about the Pels. Normally Thomas rides on his enemies and former detractors, this time his gripe was with the media. Where is Mike Thomas from you ask?

Los Angeles

New Orleans.

A win should bring a Mardi Gras type of atmosphere back to New Orleans basketball. There’s something about adversity that drives the city. They celebrate underdogs and heartwarming resurgences. It’s a feeling that is all too familiar.

Both have gone through their tragedies and were counted out. Both remained strong and arguably became better than ever. Friday presents its challenges as Washington is no slouch, even without John Wall.

The Pelicans are also more than likely going to be without Anthony Davis who’s nursing an ankle sprain. But what would be more New Orleans than a record-setting win with the odds stacked against them? Probably a Second line band rushing the floor with Army fatigue bandannas.

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Let’s just hope, no matter the result, times change in New Orleans. The die-hards will be here regardless, but it’s time everybody else joins the party, not just in the good times. The hope is that ownership makes the Pelicans more of a priority, and the fans will follow. Neither may have a choice with a win Friday.