Pelicans: Getting To Know Jordan Hawkins

A few fun facts about the New Orleans Pelicans' newest player.

New Orleans, LA - The New Orleans Pelicans addressed a significant team need by drafting Jordan Hawkins with the No. 14 pick. The Pelicans were second-to-last in the NBA last season in three-point attempts. Hawkins is a three-point specialist, so those attempt numbers should rise as the Pels find creative ways to get him open.

If you're a New Orleans fan, you may be interested in getting to know Hawkins both as a player and as a person. To help you out, here are a few facts about the former UConn forward.

Apr 3, 2023; Houston, TX, USA; Connecticut Huskies guard Jordan Hawkins (24) celebrates with fans in the stands after being removed from the game in the second half against the San Diego State Aztecs in the national championship game of the 2023 NCAA Tournament at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

A Man of Many Names

Every great NBA player has a nickname. From 'The Joker' to the 'Greek Freak,' the league is full of player pseudonyms. Jordan Hawkins has already been dubbed a few, like 'The Hawk' and 'Birdman.' Maybe the most unique one was given to him by former UConn teammate Andre Jackson Jr., calling him 'The Air Fryer.'

The name derives from how quickly Hawkins can heat up shooting. You can even buy the shirt online. Every house needs an Air Fryer, and every NBA team should have one. Now the Pelicans have one.

Recent Basketball Powerhouse

Hawkins grew up in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and started in High School at Gaithersburg High School. He eventually switched schools to DeMatha Catholic School, renowned for its athletic program. The school finished No. 2 in 2005 and 2007 on Sports Illustrated's top athletic high school programs in America.

The recent basketball success has translated directly to NBA players from the school. Besides Hawkins, former alums include current NBA players Victor Oladipo, Jerami Grant, and former No. 1 overall pick Markelle Fultz.

Cuisine King

Hawkins mentioned one of the perks of player workouts before the draft is eating different cuisines in the various NBA cities he's worked out. There is one food he claims he will never eat again, calamari. According to him, the delicacy possibly caused him food poisoning during the NCAA Final Four.

Hawkins did not miss any games; eventually, UConn won the championship. Still, calamari appears to be a permanent ban from his diet moving forward. Coming to New Orleans, the sharpshooter will have no issue finding plenty of other cuisines to dine on. He mentioned his cousin, NCAA Basketball Champion Angel Reese, has already warned him how good the food is in Louisiana. 

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