Pelicans thrilled to host Hall of Fame Junior Training Camp

Pierre the Pelican allegedly did not miss a shot, and Brandon Ingram has really grown as a rim-protecting wing going into the most recent training camp action.

The New Orleans Pelicans and New Orleans Saints helped host the 2023 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Junior Training Camp on the Northwestern State University campus on Saturday, July 29. Youth Basketball Development Manager Jason Lapouble shared afterwards that “the New Orleans Pelicans Youth Basketball Development Staff and Pierre the Pelican were thrilled to lead the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Junior Training Camp for youth around Louisiana.”

Lapouble also explained how this growing bond between the team and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame (LSHOF) helps both organizations build their brands while bringing multiple generations together in a way that lets everyone express their joy for the game.

“The New Orleans Pelicans and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame really go hand in hand. Ronnie Rantz and his team continue to do a phenomenal job of activating this event- it really seems to get better year after year. We believe the New Orleans Pelicans is a Team for ALL of Louisiana, and we cherish each opportunity we get to positively impact youth through the game of basketball in our great state.”

Pierre the Pelican was in the gym, giving the kids a unique type of teammate. The mascot did not miss a shot while I was watching, so they might be ready for the full team training camp coming up.

The middle schoolers needed Pierre’s wings to get shots over a life-size Brandon Ingram cut-out that was placed in the paint. No one left discouraged, though, just hungry to use the free Raisin’ Cane gift cards that came with the free camp admission. Fans can expect the communities’ appetite for these Pelicans events to grow in the future.

“This was our 5th time supporting the Louisiana Sports Hall Of Fame through this camp which focuses on the importance of fundamentals and teamwork. It was our pleasure coaching alongside all of our 2023 LSHOF Inductees, and special thanks to Shreveport native/WNBA Legend Alana Beard for sharing her knowledge and expertise of the game of basketball with the kids. What an amazing time it is for Women’s basketball in Louisiana!” said Lapouble.

Lapouble also stressed, “a big thanks to Northwestern State University for hosting us on campus and coaches from the Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams for assisting us with the stations.”