While many NBA teams continue to rebrand their uniforms, courts, arenas, and other forms of marketing, the Pelicans have remained steady in their era of 'The Skelican' and 'Crescent City' era of the franchise's uniforms. Rocking rep, blue, and gold, New Orleans looks much different from their earlier days as the "New Orleans Hornets". However, a reinvention of the traditional colors from the Chris Paul era of the franchise may give the franchise the look and connection with the city it needs.
A sponsor switch is one of the biggest factors regarding New Orleans' uniform status (and a potential rebrand). The team's current sponsor, Ibotta, has one year left on its deal with New Orleans after signing a three-year extension with the team in September of 2022. The practice of sponsors has only been allowed since 2017-18, but many franchises are on their second or third ones. New Orleans may be on their second with Ibotta, but Zatarains only got the rookie sponsor season.
What's changes could happen for the Pelicans' uniforms?
New Orleans has multiple jerseys and various color schemes. However, none sport the 'Pelicans' name across their uniform. This distinct detail is a lacking one for the team whereas the rest of the league where nearly every team has jerseys repping either city or team name. The 'Skelican' is a good tradition during Mardi Gras, but the team has overused the theme since its rebrand. Relying on it less and giving it the occasional, seasonal appearances would suffice far more efficiently.
This is the OFFICIAL team graphic from Voodoo kit. I think the Pels or Pelicans will be in a script font somewhere on a jersey soon.
— Dodson, Chris Dodson (@DoingItDodson) July 31, 2024
No jersey had Pels or Pelicans on it last year. Not even the shorts. pic.twitter.com/g7hCQsXSxH
With the odds of a new sponsor likely by next season, there could be more changes for New Orleans' 'look' besides the color scheme. Yes, the 'Skelican' could be on its way out. Yes, 'Pelicans' on a jersey is a dire need. But, the feeling of nostalgia in the Chris Paul era still lacks in the team's current jersey concept. Arguably, the main missing piece to connecting the current fanbase to its 'old school fans', a jersey concept embodying the days of the New Orleans Hornets would be refreshing and form unity.
With the Pelicans hinting at new gear, they'll be the league's next jersey reveal. It's impossible to please everyone, but this feels like a move long overdue; one the fanbase and team deserve. In addition, a new look could provide the new look roster with the necessary 'swagger' they wish to possess as they attempt to win games and compete in the Western Conference next season.