New Orleans Pelicans: The Pels are trying to help in the aftermath of Ida

As the entire Gulf Coast assesses the damage left in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, the New Orleans Pelicans are getting involved in the efforts.

First off, we hope you are all safe, as millions are still without power in Louisiana and we know basketball and sports in general are the furthest things from your mind.

But sports can be a distraction from the obvious stress caused by catastrophe and teams can play their part in efforts to help.

Pelicans’ owner Gayle Benson has already pledge a million dollars towards the Gulf Coast Renewal Fund and there will undoubtedly be more in the weeks to come.

The New Orleans Pelicans statement on Ida

The New Orleans Pelicans put out a somber yet resilient statement about the Hurricane as well as links to how you can help.

"“Our team and staff are all safe, for which we are very grateful. We look forward to beginning our training for the upcoming season in New Orleans as soon as our government leaders say it is safe to do so. Fortunately, the Smoothie King Center received only minor exterior damage and will be prepared to host games for the upcoming season without issue. We greatly look forward to representing our city, state and region this season as we work together to restore our community. We know how much winning games can unite and inspire people in our region and we can’t wait to take advantage of that responsibility and opportunity.Together, we will overcome this challenge the way we have so many times before and will be stronger as a result.”"

The statement also included a link for those who want to donate to the hurricane relief effort.

New Orleans and the state of Louisiana as a whole, have proven to be tough and resilient people who will come back even stronger from this tragedy.

Stay safe out there and we’ll keep trying to give you important information as well as a distraction when you need it.