New Orleans Pelicans: 2025-26 Season Outlook

The New Orleans Pelicans are an American professional basketball team competing in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a member of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Pelicans play their home games at the Smoothie King Center. This article provides an overview of the team, its history, and current standing as of March 1, 2026.

History

Established in 2002 as the New Orleans Hornets, the franchise relocated from Charlotte, North Carolina. Due to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the team temporarily relocated to Oklahoma City, playing as the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets for two seasons before returning to New Orleans in 2007. In 2013, the Hornets officially changed their name to the New Orleans Pelicans. [1]

Current Standing (2025-26 Season)

As of March 1, 2026, the New Orleans Pelicans have an overall regular season record of 831–937 (.470) across 22 seasons. [2] They have qualified for the playoffs nine times, achieving two playoff series victories and one division title in 2008. [2]

Currently, in the 2025-26 season, the Pelicans hold a record of 18 wins and 42 losses, placing them at 18th in the Western Conference with a .300 win percentage and are 27.5 games behind the leader. [1] Their record is 14 wins and 47 losses, with a .230 win percentage and 32 games behind the leader. [1]

Team Information

Head Coach: James Borrego (interim) [8]

Owner: Gayle Benson [9]

Affiliate: Birmingham Squadron [2]

Team Colors: Navy blue, gold, and red. [4]

Main Sponsor: NewAge Products [7]

Recent News

As of March 1, 2026, Zion Williamson is questionable to play in Sunday’s game due to a right ankle injury sustained during Saturday’s win over the Jazz. [3] Rookie first-rounder Derik Queen is expected to be the top candidate to start if Williamson is unable to play. [3]

Where to Find More Information

For the latest news, scores, and schedules, visit the official NBA website: NBA.com/Pelicans

Additional information can be found on Wikipedia: New Orleans Pelicans Wikipedia Page