Pelicans Scoop

Pelicans Host 2023 HOOPLA Basketball Event

The annual basketball game featured the Louisiana House of Representatives versus the Senate.

Terry Kimble

Pelicans Host 2023 HOOPLA Basketball Event
Pelicans Host 2023 HOOPLA Basketball Event /
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Baton Rouge, LA - On Wednesday night New Orleans Pelicans hosted a HOOPLA basketball event at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. The game is the eighth consecutive year the Louisiana State Representatives and Senate have squared off. The Senate won 32-31. 

Approximately 40 state representatives from around Louisiana convened in Baton Rouge to participate in the event. At stake were bragging rights for a year and a custom-made trophy awarded to the winners. The game concluded with a drawing to see which district would win a free court refurbishment in their area. 

The Pelicans brought out their entertainment team, including the PelSquad and mascot Pierre the Pelican. There was also an All-Star band comprised of the best band members across the state to give the event a live feel and energetic atmosphere. Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson spoke in Baton Rouge to thank the legislators for participating. 

In addition to food, games, and prizes like a Pierre bobblehead doll and T-shirts, there were auctioned items. Fans could bid on a signed Zion jersey or autographed merchandise from LSU football and basketball coaches. 

The Pelicans have been very visible in the community so far this offseason. This week, Mrs. Benson, Head Coach Willie Green, and Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Pelicans Swin Cash, surprised Jr. Pelicans NBA director Lowrey Crews. His organization is called the 18th Ward, and the Pelicans will invite him to travel with the team to a road game. The kids in his group will get to attend a home next season in the Smoothie King Center.

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Terry Kimble
TERRY KIMBLE

Pelicans Scoop Writer

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