The Pelicans and New Orleans are lucky to have Jrue Holiday

The New Orleans Pelicans should appreciate what they have in Jrue Holiday.

In the summer of 2019, as the New Orleans Pelicans‘ fan base was wrapping our collective heads around what happened between the Anthony Davis trade and true luck of landing Zion Williamson as the number one pick in the draft, Pelicans Executive VP David Griffin made a statement that seemed to settle any fears of additional trades of a fan favorite:

“This is Jrue Holiday’s team”.

While Jrue Holiday is beloved among the Pelicans’ fans for his on-court skills and classy way he handles himself both on and off the court, his star is growing outside of the New Orleans area for reasons that should make any Pelicans’ fan proud.

The accolades he and wife, Lauren, have received since announcing he is donating his salary received during the NBA’s “bubble season” to organizations in Jrue’s hometown of LA, Lauren’s hometown of Indianapolis, New Orleans and other parts of Louisiana that support black businesses and social justice measures are well deserved.

Jrue Holiday is becoming a community fixture for the New Orleans Pelicans.

This week, Jrue was recognized locally, being named by The Gambit as one of New Orleans’ 40 under 40.

"At a time when millions of Americans are struggling with how they will respond to calls to action from the Black Lives Matter and broader social justice movements, a celebrity willing to abandon the safety of a “no comment” and enter the fray is a powerful example. — JOHN STANTON about Jrue Holiday."

The annual issue recognizes some of the city’s best and most impressive movers and shakers under the age of 40. Other honorees in 2020 include Dr. Allex Billioux, the assistant secretary of health for the state of Louisiana, Saints’ safety Malcolm Jenkins and Devin De Wulf, who heads up the Krewe of Red Beans and shifted the organization’s focus to feeding front line workers when the pandemic started.

It’s an impressive collection of New Orleanians and Jrue’s recognition is one that is more than deserved.

The Pelican fan base has always stood behind Jrue, the player. Number 11 Jerseys can be seen throughout the city throughout the year. And the sounds of “Jruuuuuueee” echo through the Smoothie King Center when he’s introduced. His relentless defensive play, never-quit attitude and highlight worthy offense gives fans reasons to cheer.

But the accolades for Jrue, the man, are even more impressive. And for that, we should be very thankful to have Jrue and Lauren Holiday as part of the New Orleans community.