The New Orleans Pelicans have some of the most passionate fans in the entire NBA, mainly because the city of New Orleans loves to support anything it can call its own. This is something that offseason addition Jordan Poole has already learned just a week into the 2025-26 season. Following practice on Monday, JP praised the fans for showing up and being loud while supporting their Pelicans at Smoothie King Center.
“I loved it. Oh my God, I loved it... It feels so good to be in an environment where the fans are engaged... The last 3 years, dead in there. It was dead in Capitol One," said Poole
It’s nice to hear a fresh, exciting take on the Pelicans fan base and arena atmosphere, especially after what Brandon Ingram said a little under a month ago at Raptors media day.
“The most impressive thing for me is seeing every seat in the arena filled up every single game, no matter winning or losing. That definitely wasn't there in New Orleans,” said Ingram.
While BI later cleared up that he wasn’t throwing shade at the Pelicans organization or their fans, it still rubbed plenty of people the wrong way. Last season was a wash for this team because of the injuries it dealt, but with a new campaign starting, it’s nice to hear a new take from Poole on the atmosphere at home.
Poole continues to give fans more of a reason to like him
In general, JP is one of the league's most exciting players; his ability to get into his own offense at any time creates consistent moments that fans just eat up. He’s also appeared to be a great leader for the team's two lottery picks, Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears, so far.
Now pair those two things with him praising the fans and the atmosphere they bring to games, and it’s probably safe to say JP is on the good side of most Pelicans fans. Which is crazy, seeing how we’ve yet to even get a classic game from Poole, but don’t worry, it’s coming.
With Zion Williamson questionable due to a left foot bone contusion, the Pelicans may be without their best player. If Z doesn’t play, that is 27 points removed from their lineup, so someone must help pick up the slack alongside wing Trey Murphy III. If JP can be that person and will the Pelicans to a win tonight, there's no doubt in my mind he will become a certified fan favorite.